How about a grand finale of waterworks? That is exactly what the Große Fontäne offers. Here at the end of the water games in Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, the water culminates. This impressive fountain shoots skyward. It marks a spectacular conclusion to a historic display.
The Große Fontäne is no accident. It is the result of engineering and artistry. The naturally appearing pond was created in the mid-18th century. The fountain itself rises 52 meters high from this pond. It is truly a sight to behold.
But where does all this water come from? The water originates from the Fontänenreservoir. It sits above the Plutogrotte. This reservoir collects water. It includes the water from the first run below the Neptunbassins. It even holds the water that rushes down the Steinhöfer Waterfall.
The Große Fontäne works like a geyser. To achieve this effect, the fountain head must be sealed. The pipe from the reservoir is 80 meters higher. This pipe must be filled completely with water. A mechanism then releases a lid when the pipe is full. The fountain erupts from the rocky island.
The water jets high due to pressure. Water is collected underground. When there is enough pressure, a seal opens. The water shoots upward in a powerful display. The Große Fontäne marks the end of the water games. The water flows into the Lache falls. It then flows underground into the Fulda River.
The water games have existed for over 300 years. They work without modern technology. They function just as they did in the past. This makes them a renowned UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can witness the Große Fontäne during the water games. They occur from May 1st to October 3rd. The water games are every Wednesday, Sunday and public holiday in Hessen. The water games begin at 2:30 PM at the Hercules monument. It is a large metal figure. The water flows over 2 kilometers. The route goes from Hercules to the castle pond. The Große Fontäne is the final stop.
The water creates different images at each station. These include columns and patterns. Each water display lasts about 10 minutes. Then, visitors walk to the next station. The path to the Große Fontäne is not accessible. Wear sturdy shoes because there are many stairs.
Sometimes, there are water games in the evening. The entire mountain park is illuminated. Music plays during this time. These are the illuminated water games.
The Große Fontäne has evolved over time. An early 18th-century fountain was rebuilt decades later. It was moved. It finally achieved its geyser-like form in the late 18th century. It is a highlight of the water games.
The Große Fontäne offers a powerful spectacle. It combines natural beauty with human engineering. It is a fitting end to the water games. Take a moment to appreciate this grand display. It demonstrates the ingenuity of the past. It makes it a memorable experience for all.