Geneva Water Fountain

Geneva Water Fountain (‘Jet d’Eau’, meaning literally ‘water jet’), is the enormous fountain on Lake Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland. Geneva Water Fountain is one of the world’s highest fountains.

They originally constructed the fountain in 1886 to regulate and release the surplus pressure of a La Coulouvrenière hydraulic plant. It soon became the city’s notable symbol and was thus amplified and moved to the middle of the lake.

Today, it is one of the most noticeable landmarks of Geneva and part of the city’s skyline. It makes for great city photos as well.

Here are some interesting facts about Geneva Water fountain:

• About 500 liters per second of water flows from the jet, at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour.
• It costs around 800,000 francs (almost $1 million) a year to run the fountain.
• The fountain doesn’t run constantly. It is switched off at night, in strong winds and in below zero temperatures.

Geneva Water Fountain facts and figures

Key Facts:

• Name: Jet d’Eau

• Location: Geneva, Switzerland

• Installed: Originally in 1886; moved to current location in 1891

• Purpose: Originally a safety valve for a hydraulic power network; became a decorative fountain later

Technical Specifications:

• Height: Reaches up to 140 meters (460 feet)

• Water speed at nozzle: 200 km/h (124 mph)

• Pump rate: Pumps 500 liters per second

• Nozzle diameter: 10 cm (about 4 inches)

• Number of pumps: Two

• Operating pressure: About 16 bar (232 psi)

Operation & Maintenance:

• Active hours: Typically runs daily, except during strong wind, freezing temps, or maintenance

• Lighting: Illuminated at night with 21 LED lights

• Water used: Lake Geneva water

Miscellaneous:

• Visibility: Can be seen from the air when flying into Geneva

• Symbol of Geneva: One of the city’s most iconic landmarks

• Tourism: One of the most photographed spots in Geneva

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