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 launch water high into the air for an extraordinary effect. Pure functionality was the original purpose of fountains. People in cities, towns and villages received their drinking water, as well as water to bathe and wash, from aqueducts or springs in the vicinity. Used until the nineteenth century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their origin of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Fountains were not only used as a water source for drinking water, but also to decorate homes and celebrate the artist who created it. The main components used by the Romans to create their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly depicting animals or heroes. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to re-create the gardens of paradise. Fountains enjoyed a considerable role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exercise his power over nature. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were glorified with baroque style fountains built to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.
The end of the 19th century saw the rise in usage of indoor plumbing to supply drinking water, so urban fountains were relegated to strictly decorative elements. The creation of unique water effects and the recycling of water were 2 things made possible by replacing gravity with mechanical pumps.
Modern fountains are used to embellish community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.
Setting Up and Maintaining Outdoor Water fountains
Setting Up and Maintaining Outdoor Water fountains An important facet to think about is the size of the outdoor wall fountain in respect to the space in which you are going to mount it. It will require a strong wall to support its overall weight. Remember that small areas or walls will need to have a lightweight fountain.
In order for the fountain to have power, a nearby electrical plug is needed. Most outdoor wall fountains include simple, step-by-step instructions with respect to the type of fountain. Everything you will need to correctly install your outdoor wall fountain is typically provided in easy-to-use kits. In the kit you will find all the needed essentials: a submersible pump, hoses and basin, or reservoir. The basin can normally be hidden away among your garden plants if it is not too large. Once your wall fountain is installed, all that is required is regular cleaning and some light maintenance.
Change the water regularly so it is always clean. Leaves, branches or dirt are examples of debris which should be cleared away quickly. Make sure that your outdoor wall fountain is shielded from bitterly cold winter temperatures. Your pump may split when exposed to freezing water during the cold weather, so it is best to bring it indoors to prevent any damage. Simply put, your outdoor fountain will be around for many years to come with the correct care and maintenance.