Top 10 Extravagant Fountain Designs in the World
Following on the topic explored in our previous blog post, a key usage of water in architecture – as you may have predicted – involves fountains. Read on to explore ten various different breath-taking designs around the world that may or may not inspire your future travel destinations.
- Fountain of Wealth – Singapore
The magnitude of the fountain brings awe, yet its significance extends far beyond its grandeur. In Singaporean culture, wealth encompasses more than mere financial abundance; it represents prosperity across various facets of life, including happiness, health, and overall well-being. The Fountain of Wealth embodies this comprehensive understanding of prosperity, serving as a symbol of hope, aspiration, and communal achievement.
Constructed in 1995 at a cost of $6 million, the fountain has played a pivotal role in elevating Singapore’s global standing and affluence. Achieving recognition in 1998 from the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Fountain, its bronze ring draws inspiration from the Hindu Mandala, symbolising unity and spiritual oneness. Today, the Fountain of Wealth remains an iconic landmark within Suntec City, representing the city-state’s enduring success and unity.
- Trevi Fountain – Rome, Italy
By this point, we’re sure you have seen this fountain either in featured photos of travellers on Instagram or in real life. The Trevi Fountain in the heart of Rome is known worldwide for its rich details and architectural designs. Constructed in the 18th century at a cost of approximately €300,000, the fountain stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance of the Baroque period and the enduring spirit of Rome. Its grandeur and intricacy have earned it a place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike, making it a timeless icon of hope, aspiration, and collective heritage. Today, visitors from around the world flock to the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin and make a wish, perpetuating the fountain’s role as a symbol of dreams fulfilled and destinies intertwined in the eternal city.
- Bellagio Fountains – Las Vegas, USA
The Bellagio Fountains, a renowned attraction in Las Vegas, were built in 1998 as part of the Bellagio Resort and Casino’s grand opening. This spectacular water feature spans over 8.5 acres (34398 square meters) and comprises nearly 1,200 synchronised jets that shoot water up to 460 feet (140 meters) into the air. The fountains’ performances occur every 30 minutes in the afternoons and evenings, and every 15 minutes after 8 PM until midnight. With over 4,500 lights and a choreographed array of music selections, the Bellagio Fountains offer a mesmerising experience for visitors, captivating millions each year with its captivating displays.
- Fountain of Neptune – Florence, Italy
Bartolomeo Ammannati (18 June 1511 – 13 April 1592) hailed from Settignano, near Florence, and was celebrated as both an architect and sculptor in Italy. Among his notable works, stands the Fountain of Neptune (circa 1560–75) in Florence’s Piazza della Signoria. Commissioned in 1565 and originally designed by Baccio Bandinelli, this fountain was crafted from marble and bronze. The central figure, hewn from a colossal block of marble initiated by Bandinelli before his passing in 1560, posed a challenge for Ammanati’s execution. However, he found greater success with the surrounding bronze sculptures depicting four reclining deities and a lively assembly of fauns and satyrs (all crafted between 1571–75), which were modelled and casted under his direction by a skilled team. These figures, along with an allegorical female nude representing Ops (1572–73), exemplify Ammanati’s mature artistic style in both design and character.
- The Palm Fountain – Dubai, UAE
The Palm Fountain, which captivated audiences since its grand opening in October 2020, has unfortunately ceased its performances. Despite its temporary closure, the fountain left a lasting impression on visitors with its grandeur and innovation. Spanning 14,000 sq. ft. across the ocean, it hosted a mesmerising water fountain show synchronised to music by world-renowned and local artists. Standing out with its 105-metre water jets, it held the Guinness World Record for the largest dancing fountain globally, boasting over 3000 LED lights for a magical visual spectacle. With 86 speakers providing high-quality music, the fountain ensured a captivating audio-visual experience. Moreover, it prioritised sustainability by utilising ocean water directly and employing energy-saving technology during performances. Though currently closed, The Palm Fountain’s legacy of creativity and ambition continues to resonate in Dubai’s landscape.
- Jet d’Eau – Geneva, Switzerland
The Jet d’Eau fountain, an iconic symbol of Geneva since its inception, continues to mesmerise both locals and tourists with its majestic presence. Erected in 1891, this engineering marvel has become a defining feature of the city’s landscape. The fountain propels water to a staggering height of 140 metres, creating a breathtaking spectacle visible throughout Geneva and even from the air. Equipped with a powerful pump system, it expels 500 litres of water per second at a speed of 200 km/h, generating a fine mist that often forms vibrant rainbows in the sunlight. As night falls, the Jet d’Eau transforms with the illumination of 21 LED lights, offering a dazzling display against the darkened sky. This grand fountain is not just a testament to human ingenuity and aesthetic appeal, but also reflects Geneva’s commitment to sustainability, utilising water directly from Lake Geneva and incorporating energy-efficient technology. Its enduring presence and stunning performances ensure that the Jet d’Eau remains a beloved and inspirational landmark in Switzerland’s cultural and natural heritage.
- The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc – Barcelona, Spain
As the name suggests, this fountain found in the bustling city of Barcelona is a true magic. It launched during the 1929 Great Universal Exhibition and defied doubts over its ambitious design by Carles Buigas. Since then, the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc has become an iconic symbol of the city, captivating audiences with its enchanting performances. Nestled at the foot of Montjuïc hill, this grand fountain features a spectacular display of water, light and music, creating a mesmerising experience for all who visit. With over 3,600 water jets and 4,760 lights, the fountain performs intricate water choreographies set to a diverse range of musical genres, from classical compositions to modern pop hits.
The Magic Fountain’s evening shows are particularly breathtaking, as the illuminated jets dance in harmony with the music, casting vibrant colours and reflections that light up the night. The fountain’s dynamic performances showcase not only artistic creativity but also technical ingenuity, embodying the vibrant and innovative spirit of Barcelona.
- King Fahd Fountain – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Visible from anywhere of the city skylines of Jeddah, King Fahd Fountain is a much-loved Jeddah landmark and a 30-year-old monument in the middle of the Red Sea. Its 312-metre fountain highlights the sunset of Jeddah, making it a spectacle for anyone who comes across it. This impressive feat of engineering holds the record as the tallest fountain in the world, with water jets reaching astonishing heights, propelled by powerful pumps at a speed of 375 km/h. Illuminated by over 500 spotlights, the fountain creates a dazzling display against the backdrop of the evening sky, casting shimmering reflections across the water. Donated to the city by King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the fountain is not just a marvel of modern technology but also a symbol of Jeddah’s growth and development. Its enduring presence continues to captivate residents and visitors alike, embodying the blend of tradition and progress that characterises this vibrant coastal city.
- Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain – Xi’an, China
The Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain in Xi’an, China, is a spectacular modern addition to the ancient city’s cultural landscape. Situated at the foot of the historic Big Wild Goose Pagoda, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty, the fountain covers a vast area and features the largest musical fountain in Asia. Its impressive water displays are synchronised with a captivating blend of traditional Chinese music and contemporary tunes, creating a mesmerising experience for visitors. The fountain’s jets, illuminated by vibrant lights, shoot water high into the air, creating dynamic patterns and a dazzling visual spectacle. This fusion of ancient heritage and modern technology makes the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Fountain a must-see attraction, embodying the rich history and vibrant spirit of Xi’an.
- Friendship of Nations Fountain – Moscow, Russia
Last but not least, the Friendship of Nations Fountain, located in Moscow’s iconic VDNKh park, is a splendid symbol of Soviet-era grandeur and international unity. Unveiled in 1954, the fountain features 16 gilded statues, each representing a republic of the former Soviet Union, encircling a large central basin. These statues, dressed in traditional national costumes, stand hand-in-hand, embodying the ideals of friendship and cooperation. The fountain’s water jets create a mesmerising display, with streams reaching up to 20 metres high, enhanced by the sparkle of the golden figures. At night, the fountain is beautifully illuminated, adding to its majestic presence. This Fountain ultimately remains a beloved attraction, reflecting the historical and cultural richness of Moscow and serving as a reminder of the city’s storied past and its enduring spirit of unity.
Sources
- https://www.designtimes.com/articles/3333/20231205/top-10-favorite-fountains-worldwide-hailed-technological-wonders.htm
- https://citydays.com/places/fountain-of-wealth/
- http://www.travelingintuscany.com/art/bartolomeoammannati/fontanadelnettuno.htm
- https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/jeddah/attractions/visit-king-fahd-s-fountain
