The Earliest Documented Garden Water Features of Human History

The Earliest Documented Garden Water Features of Human History Water fountains were originally practical in function, used to deliver water from rivers or creeks to cities and villages, supplying the inhabitants with clean water to drink, bathe, and cook with. The force of gravity was the power supply of water fountains up until the end of the nineteenth century, using the potent power of water traveling down hill from a spring or brook to squeeze the water through spigots or other outlets. Inspiring and spectacular, big water fountains have been designed as memorials in most civilizations. When you encounter a fountain today, that is definitely not what the 1st water fountains looked like. The very first known water fountain was a rock basin created that served as a receptacle for drinking water and ceremonial functions. 2,000 BC is when the earliest known stone fountain basins were originally used. Early fountains used in ancient civilizations depended on gravity to control the movement of water through the fountain. These ancient water fountains were created to be functional, commonly situated along reservoirs, creeks and rivers to provide drinking water. Fountains with embellished Gods, mythological beasts, and creatures began to show up in Rome in about 6 BC, crafted from stone and bronze. Water for the community fountains of Rome was delivered to the city via a complex system of water aqueducts.

Bernini’s Early Italian Fountains

Bernini’s Early Italian Fountains Bernini's earliest fountain, named Barcaccia, is a breath taking work of art seen at the bottom of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna. To this day, this spot is filled with Roman locals and tourists alike who enjoy debate and each other's company. Bernini’s Early Italian Fountains 22991403688695983434.jpg

Bernini would undoubtedly have been happy to know that people still flock to what has become one the city's most fashionable areas, that around his amazing water fountain. Dating back to around 1630, Pope Urbano VIII mandated what was to be the earliest fountain of the master's career. Depicted in the fountain's design is a large vessel slowly sinking into the Mediterranean Sea. The great 16th century flood of the Tevere, which left the entire region inundated with water, was memorialized by the fountain according to writings from the period. Absenting himself from Italy only once in his life for a long-lasting period of time, in 1665 Bernini voyaged to France.