The word fountain came from the Latin term fons or fontis which literally means a source or spring. The history of water fountains dates 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. Based from the ruins found from this period, fountains of that time were made from solid rocks and were situated near streams or rivers. 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 known for their sophisticated water systems, they are the ones who first revolutionized 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 the Renaissance and Baroque ages, the use of wall water fountain, and other fountain types for that matter, had rapidly spread in Europe and other nearby 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. 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 20th century arrived, fountains were freed entirely from the need to be primary water sources. The 20th century also saw 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 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. Other than their aesthetic value however, fountains nowadays are more revered for the relaxing sense they induce. With this capability, it's not at all surprising why many homeowners prefer having these water features inside their homes.