Hochstrahlbrunnen

The Hochstrahlbrunnen is a magnificent fountain located in Vienna, Austria. Let me share some interesting details about this impressive water feature:

1. Historical Significance:

   • The Hochstrahlbrunnen was inaugurated on October 24, 1873, in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph I. It marked a significant milestone in urban development and city planning.
   • The fountain commemorates the completion of the I. Wiener Hochquellenwasserleitung, which was the first direct water pipeline bringing clean water from the Alps to Vienna. This pipeline had enormous benefits for public health by providing high-quality tap water.

2. Architectural Features:

   • The name “Hochstrahlbrunnen” translates to “the fountain with tall jets,” and it lives up to its name. Unlike gentle fountains, this one showcases the power of water.
   • The fountain has an intricate design:
     • 365 small spring fountains at the basin’s edge symbolize the days of the year.
     • Six fountains between the basin edge and the inner island represent the days of the week.
     • Twelve high jets symbolize the months.
     • Twenty-four low jets represent the hours of the day.
     • Thirty jets in the central island correspond to the days of the month.
   • Originally, the fountain had a single high jet for the entire year, four jets for the seasons, and 365 peripheral jets for each day of the year. Its water consumption was substantial, so it operated mainly during festive occasions.

3. Transformation to a Leuchtbrunnen (Illuminated Fountain):

   • In 1906, the city converted the Hochstrahlbrunnen into a Fontaine lumineuse (illuminated fountain).
   • At night, the plumes of water are lit up in various colors using spotlights.
   • In 2013, energy-efficient LED spotlights replaced the existing lamp technology, enhancing the visual spectacle.
   • Due to Vienna’s climate, the fountain operates during the warmer seasons, typically from late March to late October.

4. Location and Neighbors:

   • The Hochstrahlbrunnen stands at one end of Schwarzenbergplatz square.
   • It is situated near the memorial to the Red Army and not far from the statue of Prince Schwarzenberg himself.

Next time you visit Vienna, take a moment to admire this remarkable fountain and appreciate its historical significance! 🌊💧🏛️.