Where did Large Outdoor Fountains Begin?

Pure functionality was the original role of fountains. Water fountains were connected to a spring or aqueduct to provide potable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Used until the 19th century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their source of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Designers thought of fountains as amazing additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to provide clean water and celebrate the artist responsible for building it. Animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks were often times utilized by Romans to beautify their fountains. Muslims and Moorish garden designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller versions of the gardens of paradise. The fountains seen in the Gardens of Versailles were meant to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains constructed to mark the place of entry of Roman aqueducts.

Urban fountains made at the end of the 19th century functioned only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the necessary drinking water. The creation of special water effects and the recycling of water were two things made possible by swapping gravity with mechanical pumps.

Modern-day fountains serve mostly as decoration for public spaces, to honor individuals or events, and enhance entertainment and recreational gatherings.

Exterior Wall Fountains: The Many Styles on the Market

Depending on your wishes, you can choose from mounted or freestanding types. Small, self-contained mounted wall fountains can be installed on any surface. One of the most important features of wall fountains is that they be lightweight, so they are typically made of fiberglass or resin to replicate the look of stone. Sizable free-standing wall fountains, often referred to as floor fountains, have their basins positioned on the floor and a flat side leaning on a wall. Generally constructed of cast stone, this type of water feature is not restricted in weight.

Many qualified landscapers favor custom-built fountains which can be integrated into a brand-new wall or an existing one. A professional mason is necessary to install the water basin against the wall and correctly install all the plumbing inside or behind the wall. The wall will need to have a spout or fountain mask built into it. Custom-built wall fountains add to a unified appearance because they become part of the landscape rather than look like a later addition.