The Patio Expert Pages

The word fountain is derived from the Latin term fons or fontis which means a source or a spring. The history of water fountains can be traced from thousands of years ago. They were originally used to supply drinking and bathe water, and from there they evolved into highly decorative elements that we know today. Despite the design and function changes of fountains, they remain as one of history's most appealing legacies that never fail to captivate human interest.

From as far back as third millennium B.C., the Mesopotamians used water fountains as parts of their daily living. Most of the fountain ruins found in this area have shown that such water features of that time were made out of solid rocks and were mostly situated near streams. In ancient times, the need for fountains were highly dependent on the location of a civilization's water supply. For instance, ancient Egyptians had deviceful water system that allowed them to hoist water from Nile River easily, thereby reducing their need for excessive fountains.

The ancient Romans and Greeks on the other hand, brought water down from the mountains with the aid of aqueducts. However, since their water sources were situated higher than the outlets, they used fountains to supply their cities with drinking and bathe water. As Romans are often looked up to for their advanced engineering and water systems, it is not a surprise to know that they are also responsible for the advancements in the art and technology of fountain designs. As a proof of their ingenuity, they developed and installed several free-standing fountains and wall water fountain features within their city.

During Renaissance and Baroque periods, the use of wall water fountain and other fountains expanded rapidly in Europe and other continents. It was during those periods when the functions of fountains dramatically transformed from mere drinking and bathe water reservoirs into luxurious interior and exterior furnishings. Fountains were transformed into expressive art forms as seen from the allegorical figures they exemplify. Sculptures became the principal elements of fountain designs in the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

When the 20th century began, fountains were liberated from their drinking and bathing water supply responsibilities. The 20th century also saw the rise of new fountain materials and technologies. From the once all-rock design of fountains, you can now see copper fountain designs that have amplified music and jets of water controlled computer program. Basically, the innovations in technology allow the introduction of a whole new profusion of fountain designs.

Water fountains are essential water features that benefited humans throughout history. Hence, they can be contemplated as one of history's finest gifts. More than their decorative prowess however, fountains nowadays are more appreciated for their stress-relieving capabilities. With this capability, it's not at all surprising why many homeowners prefer having these water features inside their homes.