The word fountain came from the Latin term fons or fontis which literally means a source or spring. Water fountains have a rich history, dating back from thousands of years ago. At the outset, they were utilized as water sources for drinking and bathing, and overtime they evolved into decorative features used to accentuate indoor and outdoor areas. Even if the designs and functions of fountains have profoundly changed, their appeal continue to fascinate us, and due to this they are contemplated as one of history's most important legacies.

From as far back as third millennium B.C., the Mesopotamians used water fountains as parts of their daily living. Accordingly, fountain ruins extracted from this period have shown that such water features were constructed out of solid rocks and were strategically located near streams. During the ancient times, the need for fountains was dependent on the location of the water supply of a certain civilization. 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.

Meanwhile, ancient Romans and Greeks brought their water down to their cities from the mountains by using aqueducts. However, because their water sources were above the level of their cities, they used fountains to properly route their 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. Those periods also witnessed the high point of fountain use, and it was also during those times when the purposes of fountains had changed from drinking and bathe water reservoirs to highly decorative pieces. It was then that fountains became expressions of art as seen from the allegorical figures that they were designed after. 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. This period bear witness to the evolution of 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. Fundamentally, modern fountain designs and finishes have become infinite.

Water fountains are vital water features that endowed humans with endless benefits. Hence, they can be contemplated as one of history's finest gifts. Aside from their decorative purposes however, fountains today are more appreciated for their healthy benefits. No wonder, more and more homeowners are using these water features inside their personal spaces.

Water fountains have been around since ancient civilization. The wall water fountain for instance, was utilized as a drinking and bathe water source by Romans and Greeks. Today however, these water features are primarily used as ornamental features in different places including homes and business establishments. They also come in different designs, like the copper fountain, that provide them their unique finishes.