The Origins Of Garden Fountains

Pure functionality was the original role of fountains. Residents of urban areas, townships and small towns utilized them as a source of drinking water and a place to wash, which meant that fountains needed to be connected to nearby aqueduct or spring. Until the late 19th, century most water fountains functioned using the force of gravity to allow water to flow or jet into the air, therefore, they needed a source of water such as a reservoir or aqueduct located higher than the fountain. Fountains were not only used as a water source for drinking water, but also to decorate homes and celebrate the artist who created it. Bronze or stone masks of animals and heroes were commonly seen on Roman fountains. Muslims and Moorish garden designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller models of the gardens of paradise. Fountains played a considerable role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. To mark the entryway of the restored Roman aqueducts, the Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries commissioned the building of baroque style fountains in the spot where the aqueducts entered the city of Rome

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 public spaces, honor individuals or events, and enrich recreational and entertainment events.

The Elegance of Simple Garden Decor: The Water Wall Fountain

Outdoor wall features come in lots of different materials, but they are normally made of stone and metal. The most appropriate material for your water feature depends entirely on the style you choose. The best designs for your outdoor wall fountain are those which are handmade, simple to put up and not too heavy to hang. Buying a water feature which requires minimal maintenance is important as well. Even though installing certain fountains can be difficult, the majority require little work because the only parts which need special care are the re-circulating pump and the equipment to hang them. It is very simple to liven up your garden with these types of fountains.