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Why the Geneva water fountain is so popular?

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the Geneva water fountain

The Geneva water fountain is also known as the Jet d’Eau. It’s a large fountain that can be found in Geneva, Switzerland. It can shoot water up to 140m (460 feet) high and is a landmark of Geneva. It is open during the day, and illuminated at night. This creates a spectacular visual display that can be seen from many locations in the city.

Although there is not an official number for the average visitor to the Geneva fountain times, it is believed that hundreds of thousands of people visit the fountain each year. It is a popular tourist attraction in Geneva and is often visited by tourists and locals from all over the globe. The number of tourists visiting the fountain can fluctuate depending on when it is open. Peak tourist season runs from June through September. The fountain is more crowded during peak tourist season, when there are long lines and wait times for a good view. The fountain is still a popular tourist attraction, even in the off-season.

How does Geneva fountain work?

It may not be important to know how exactly the fountain works, but the way, that it shows it’s beautiful side and makes location jaw dropping is inspiring.

The complex hydraulic system of the Geneva water fountain works in these ways:

  • Water Intake: A pipe is located near the shore that draws water from Lake Geneva.
  • Pumping: Water is then pumped at very high pressure using two 500 kW pumps. These pumps can pump up to 500 liters per second through the nozzle.
  • Nozzle: The water is forced through a special nozzle at the pipe’s end. This creates a narrow stream of high-velocity water. You can adjust the direction and Geneva fountain height of the plume by moving the nozzle.
  • Plume of water: Water shoots upwards to a height up to 140m (460 feet), creating a stunning plume of water. It can be seen from many places in the city, particularly on clear days.
  • Water Recycling: The water from the lake is collected in a basin. It is then drawn back into a pumping system where it is filtered again.
  • Lighting: A series of powerful lights are located at the base the fountain’s nozzle. The lighting system is powered by 9 high-intensity projectors, which can create a wide range of colors and patterns. This adds to the fountain’s visual appeal.

The Geneva water fountain is a marvel of hydraulic engineering and a beloved symbol in the city. It’s important to note, that local people also call it Geneva jet d’eau.

How much does the Geneva fountain cost?

It is unknown how much it cost for the fountain to be built and installed. It is known, however, that the fountain was installed as a functional piece to relieve pressure from a hydraulic power system in 1886. The fountain was not intended to become a tourist attraction. The fountain has been modified over the years and made into the landmark it is today.

The daily water consumption of the fountain is approximately 500 liters per second. The water comes from Lake Geneva, which can be used again and again. The fountain doesn’t consume a lot of water per day. Although the information about the fountain’s electricity consumption, including its lighting and pumping systems, is not public, it is likely to be significant due to its complexity and size.

One thing to take into consideration before visiting Switzerland: a new system is coming into force in 2025 that will change the way many people travel to the Schengen zone. The new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is being introduced as a way to streamline and enhance the security of travel into the European Schengen area. It will change the way people travel around the world.

You might come up with some rumors giving different numbers and ideas of what the real price of the Geneva water jet is, but unfortunately you can’t tell if you are facing the truth or a lie.

Small tips to consider when visiting the Fountain

It’s important to note some tips, when going to such a location like the Geneva water fountain:

  • Dress appropriately: The area around the fountain can be quite windy, especially when the fountain is at full power, so it is a good idea to dress in warm layers and wear a hat or hair tie to keep your hair from blowing around.
  • Be mindful of the water: The water from the fountain can cause a mist that can make the surrounding area damp, so be sure to protect your camera or other electronics from water damage. Also, as mentioned earlier, it is not recommended to drink the water from the fountain.
  • Find the best viewing spot: The fountain is visible from many parts of the city, but for the best views, head to the shore of Lake Geneva, where you can get a clear view of the fountain and take some great photos.

Can you drink from Swiss fountains?

It is safe to drink water from Swiss fountains. This is because Switzerland has high-quality drinking waters that meet strict safety and health standards. Locals and tourists alike love the freshness and cleanliness of Swiss fountains. They are used to fill water bottles and pour water directly from the spout. It is a good idea, however, to always check the sign at the fountain to ensure that the water is safe for drinking. Although rare, water can be temporarily unfit to drink because of maintenance or repairs, these situations are usually well-marked and will not prevent anyone from using the fountain.

As mentioned above, ETIAS will become mandatory by the end of this year. All people who are citizens of a country that has a visa exemption agreement with the EU will qualify to apply for ETIAS. You can check travel information on our website. Those eligible for ETIAS will therefore include British citizens, as the UK is one on a long list of countries that enjoy visa-free travel into the Schengen region.

However, It is not recommended that you drink water from the Geneva water fountain. Although the water is drawn from Lake Geneva, a freshwater lake that is also used for irrigation, it is not intended to be consumed. During fountain operation, the water is exposed to wind and air. This could lead to contaminants and impurities. Although the water in Lake Geneva can be drank, it is better to have bottled water or to use designated drinking fountains when out and about in Geneva. There are many drinking fountains that provide potable water in public areas of the city. These are usually marked with signs that indicate the water is safe for consumption.

Conclusion

For many reasons, the Geneva water fountain (also known as Jet d’Eau) is very popular:

  • Amazing Visual Display: A plume of water rising up to 140m (460ft) high creates an amazing visual display. It is lit by powerful lights at night to create a stunning sight.
  • It is the iconic symbol of Geneva. The fountain is a landmark that is easily recognized and has been deemed an emblem of the city. Many people associate Geneva’s fountain with Geneva, so many tourists include it in their travel itinerary.
  • Accessible and Free: The fountain can be accessed by everyone. The fountain can be viewed from many angles, including from the shoreline, from a boat on Lake Geneva fountain or from the air.
  • Engineering feat: The fountain is a remarkable feat of engineering. It uses complex hydraulic systems that use high-pressure pumps and a specializednozzle to propel water to incredible heights. Over the years, the technology behind the fountain has improved and has been a source for pride for Genevans.

The Geneva water fountain is a must see attraction in Geneva. It has become a symbol for the city’s natural beauty and technological innovation as well as its commitment to public art.