The word fountain came from the Latin term fons or fontis which literally means a source or spring. The history of water fountains can be traced 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. Although the designs and functions of fountains significantly changed over the years, their appeal has never faded and they are still considered as one of the greatest legacies of antiquity.

As far back as third millennium B.C., water fountains were used in Mesopotamia or modern day Iraq. 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. Back then, whether a civilization had fountains or not depended on the location of their water supplies. 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.

By the time the Renaissance and Baroque ages took over, the use of wall water fountain and any other fountains rapidly spread across Europe and other nearby 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. Fountains then became the channels to express art forms as seen from the allegorical figures that they were designed after. In fact, sculptures became the major element of fountain designs during the Renaissance and Baroque eras.

By the 20th century, fountains were freed from their drinking and bathing supply responsibilities. The 20th century also saw the rise of new fountain materials and technologies. From plain and lifeless looking fountain designs, it is now possible to see copper fountain finishes that comes with amplified music and jets of water controlled by a computer program. Basically, modern designs and finishes of fountains are endless.

Water fountains are essential water features that benefited humans throughout history. In this respect, it cannot be denied that they are one of history's most important legacies. Aside from their decorative purposes however, fountains today are more appreciated for their healthy benefits. With this ability, it is no wonder that many home and establishment owners utilize such water features inside their spaces.