The word fountain is derived from the Latin term fons or fontis which means a source or a spring. Water fountains have a rich history, dating back 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. 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.

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. Back then, whether a civilization had fountains or not depended on the location of their water supplies. For example, since ancient Egyptians had ingenious water hoisting system, they were able to get water from Nile River easily, thereby limiting their need for fountains.

On the other hand, ancient Romans and Greeks brought water down from the mountains by using 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. In fact, they placed several free-standing fountains as well as wall water fountain along their city streets.

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. 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.

When 20th century arrived, fountains were freed entirely from the need to be primary water sources. This era paved way for the rise of new fountain materials and technologies. From dull looking fountain designs of ancient civilizations, it is now possible to create copper fountain designs with amplified music and jets of water manipulated by computer programs. Fundamentally, modern fountain designs and finishes have become infinite.

Water fountains have been important water features for many civilizations. 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 capability, it's not at all surprising why many homeowners prefer having these water features inside their homes.

The designs and functions of water fountains have changed profoundly since the time they were used in ancient civilizations. Back then, fountains, just like the wall water fountain, were primary sources of water for people that were created from natural stones. Overtime, fountains evolved as decorative pieces used to accentuate certain spaces. In relation to this, their designs have also evolved to include different innovative materials as seen from the copper fountain and other metal-finished fountains.