Abstract

Well designed and technically advanced fountains can change the appearance of a city and make it much more appealing. They attract people creating the right atmosphere for rest, conversation and relaxation. Undoubtedly, fountains are of great decorative significance. Moreover they influence people's health, climate and sanitary conditions. They also sustain biodiversity of an urban area and thanks to their originality provide a tourist attraction. There are more and more technically advanced and even unusual solutions such as splash, animated, musical and bathing fountains as well as fountains with a possibility of interactive play. Nowadays, in many towns and cities of Poland there are fountains of the old type, devoid of splashing water effect very often even without any illumination at night. Frequently, the condition of those devices makes it impossible for people to relax, rest or talk. Fountains have, however, become a popular part of shopping centers, department stores, hotels and casinos. The owners of those facilities have understood the phenomenon of the fountain and now use it to create a unique atmosphere and attract customers at the same time. It is time that local governments in Poland understood that it is also the infrastructure of the city squares and gardens that influences the mood and the quality of relaxation of all the citizens as well as visitors. Beautifully designed fountains determine the city's esthetic qualities making them ideal tourist attraction. Many a time little capital investment can help a city or town gain this element.(original abstract)