As we explore the world’s most beautiful fountains, we can’t help but be amazed by their grandeur and artistry. From ancient monuments to modern marvels, these water features have been crafted to inspire awe and wonder in all who behold them.
The Art of Fountains: A Brief History
Fountains have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, with evidence of ancient civilizations using water features to create beautiful works of art. The Romans, for example, were renowned for their elaborate fountains, which often featured intricate carvings and sculptures. As we’ll explore later, some of the world’s most stunning fountains are located in modern cities, while others date back centuries.
1. 71 Fountain – A Modern Marvel
Located on Highway 71 in Ohio, USA, this magnificent giant ring fountain is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Designed to resemble a giant stone ring, it’s a truly extraordinary piece of modern art that will leave you speechless.
2. Nacka Foutain – A Monument of Peace
This beautiful sculpture of God, Our Father on the Rainbow by Carl Miles stands as a monument of peace in Stockholm, Sweden. Located on the main street of the city, it’s a stunning example of public art that inspires reflection and contemplation.
3. Fountain At The Smithsonian National Museum
Located in the heart of Washington D.C., USA, this stunning cylindrical fountain is a place of deep meditation and relaxation. Its unique design creates a soothing sound that’s similar to white noise, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
4. Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Fountain
This colorful and magnificent fountain is located in Thailand and features dragons on both sides and a giant Buddha at its center. A must-visit for anyone interested in Eastern culture and artistry.
5. Keller Fountain – A Symbol of Portland
Located in the heart of Portland, Oregon, USA, this beautiful fountain is a symbol of the city’s beauty and landscape architecture. Designed by Angela Danadjieva, it was awarded a medal from the American Society of Landscape Architects in 1999 for its stunning design.
6. Fountain ‘Metalmorphosis’
Part sculpture, part fountain, Metalmorphosis is an incredible work by Czech sculptor David Černý. Located in Charlotte, USA, this masterpiece consists of 24 plates of stainless steel that rotate independently and align periodically to form a giant human head.
7. Tunnel Of Surprises
Located in Lima, Peru, the “Surprise Tunnel” is a fountain in the Magic Water Circuit (Circuito del Agua Mágico) that set a Guinness World Record as the largest public fountain complex. This incredible feat of engineering is not to be missed!
8. Mosaïcultures Internationales
Located in Montreal, Canada, this stunning mosaic artwork was created by Lise Cormier and her team. It’s a non-profit organization that projects, builds, and manages exhibitions, gardens, and mosaic artworks that are sure to inspire.
9. L’uomo della pioggia
Given to the city of Florence by artist Jean-Michel Folon, this bronze man stands three meters tall and features water flowing from his hat, forming an ombrello. A masterpiece of contemporary art, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Florence.
10. Cascades Of Hercules Monument
Located in Kassel, Germany, this baroque and romantic landscape features a large statue of Hercules whose water falls through various fountain-like features. Conceived by Landgrave Carl d’Assia-Kassel from 1689 onwards, it’s a testament to the power of art.
11. The Divers Fountain
Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, this stunning fountain reaches 24 meters high and features sculptures of divers made of glass fiber. It traverses all four levels of the shopping area’s outdoor spaces, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.
12. Fontana di Trevi
Located in Rome, Italy, this masterpiece of Italian art is considered one of the most famous fountains in the world. Completed in 1762 and renovated in 1998, it’s a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.
13. Nine Floating Fountains
Created by Japanese architect/artist Isamu Noguchi for the Expo ’70 held in Osaka, Japan, these incredible fountains seem to float and still have their original charm after over 40 years. A testament to Noguchi’s innovative design skills.
14. Giant – Entrata alo Swarovski Kristallwelten
Located in Wattens, Austria, this unique attraction was created by André Heller to celebrate the centenary of the famous Austrian crystal company Swarovski. It’s a fascinating example of modern art and craftsmanship.
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
15. Vortex Fountain Charybdis
Located near Sunderland, UK, this fountain created by sculptor d’acqua William Pye is named after a Sirene from Homer’s Odyssey who was struck by lightning and transformed into a whirlpool. Its unique design creates an unforgettable experience for visitors.
16. Magic Tap
Located in Cadiz, Spain, this strange and enchanting fountain looks like a tap suspended in mid-air at Aqualand. In reality, it has an invisible tube beneath the water flow that maintains its stability despite lacking any visible support.
17. Banpo Bridge
Located in Seoul, South Korea, this world’s longest fountain-park bridge set a Guinness World Record with almost 10,000 LED lights along its 1,140-meter-long length. Water flows at a rate of 190 tons per minute from the river beneath it.
18. The Mustangs Of Las Colinas
Located in Irving, Texas, USA, this bronze sculpture by Robert Glen commemorates the wild horses once living throughout much of Texas. It features water fountains creating the effect of their hooves splashing water.
19. Osaka Station Fountain-Clock
Located at the South Gate Building in the new Osaka Station City complex, this spectacular fountain displays digital clocks along its surface, accompanied by floral motifs that cascade down the fountain’s water path.
20. Water Boat Fountain
Located on the Malvarrosa Beach in Valencia, Spain, this stunning boat-shaped fountain gives the illusion of a sailboat with water jets. A must-see destination for anyone visiting Valencia.
Conclusion:
As we’ve explored the world’s 20 most beautiful fountains, it’s clear that each one is a masterpiece in its own right. From ancient monuments to modern marvels, these water features have been crafted to inspire awe and wonder in all who behold them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the oldest fountain on this list?
The oldest fountain on this list is the Cascades Of Hercules Monument, located in Kassel, Germany. It was conceived by Landgrave Carl d’Assia-Kassel from 1689 onwards. - Which fountain is the largest public fountain complex?
The “Surprise Tunnel” fountain in Lima, Peru, set a Guinness World Record as the largest public fountain complex in 2007. - Where is the Fountain At The Smithsonian National Museum located?
Located in Washington D.C., USA, this stunning cylindrical fountain is a place of deep meditation and relaxation. - Which fountain features dragons on both sides and a giant Buddha at its center?
The Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara Fountain is located in Thailand and features dragons on both sides and a giant Buddha at its center. - What is the name of the sculptor behind the Metalmorphosis fountain?
David Černý is the sculptor behind the Metalmorphosis fountain, which is located in Charlotte, USA. - Which fountain is considered one of the most famous fountains in the world?
The Fontana di Trevi, located in Rome, Italy, is considered one of the most famous fountains in the world. - How high does The Divers Fountain reach?
Located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, this stunning fountain reaches 24 meters high. - Which bridge features almost 10,000 LED lights along its length?
The Banpo Bridge in Seoul, South Korea, features almost 10,000 LED lights along its 1,140-meter-long length.
Bonus Information
- Did you know that some of the world’s most famous fountains are actually located in China?
- The oldest known fountain is the Stele Fountain at Qufu in Shandong Province, which dates back to the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220 AD).
- Fountains have been used for both practical and artistic purposes throughout history. In some cases, they’ve even served as a symbol of power or wealth.
Final Thoughts
The world’s most beautiful fountains are truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, there’s a fountain on this list that’s sure to captivate your imagination. So go ahead, take a deep breath, and let the sound of running water wash over you – you won’t regret it!
