Where did Fountains Begin?
Where did Fountains Begin? A fountain, an amazing piece of engineering, not only supplies drinking water as it pours into a basin, it can also propel water high into the air for an extraordinary effect.Originally, fountains only served a practical purpose. Cities, towns and villages made use of nearby aqueducts or springs to supply them with drinking water as well as water where they could bathe or wash. Until the late 19th, century most water fountains operated using gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a supply of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Acting as an element of adornment and celebration, fountains also provided clean, fresh drinking water. Bronze or stone masks of wildlife and heroes were frequently seen on Roman fountains. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to mimic the gardens of paradise. Fountains enjoyed a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exercise his power over nature. Seventeen and 18 century Popes sought to exalt their positions by adding decorative baroque-style fountains at the point where restored Roman aqueducts arrived into the city.
Since indoor plumbing became the standard of the day for clean, drinking water, by the end of the 19th century urban fountains were no longer needed for this purpose and they became purely ornamental. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.
Contemporary fountains are used to embellish community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.
Your Herb Garden: The Basic Concepts

Keeping Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy
Keeping Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy
A complete cleaning every 3-4 months is ideal for garden fountains. The first step is to get rid of all the water. As soon as it is empty, clean inside the reservoir with a gentle cleanser. If there are any little grooves, use a toothbrush to get each and every spot. Do not leave any soap deposits inside or on the fountain.
Various organisms and calcium deposits may get inside the pump, so it is advised to take it apart and clean it thoroughly. Letting it soak in vinegar for several hours first will make it much easier to clean. Mineral or rain water, versus tap water, is ideal in order to eliminate any build-up of chemicals inside the pump.
Lastly, make sure your fountain is always full by looking at it every day - this will keep it in tip-top shape. If the water level falls below the pump’s intake level, it can damage the pump and cause it to burn out - something you don't want to happen!