Fountain sights in Middle East
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A
Nymphaeum
Built in AD 191, the Nymphaeum was once a large, two-storey complex with fountains, mosaics, stone carvings and possibly a 600 sq metre swimming pool – all dedicated to the nymphs (mythical young girls who lived in and around the rivers). Up until 1947, the ancient stream and Roman bridge still stood where the road now runs. Excavations started in earnest in 1993, and restoration will continue for many years. Except for a few columns, an elegant archway and a few alcoves, there is little to see, though the workers toiling away may yet reveal hidden treasures in the years to come.
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B
Fire and Water Fountain
The Fire and Water Fountain in the centre of Kikar Dizengoff makes for a somewhat appropriate symbol of the city. Spinning crazily, spurting water at random moments and occasionally launching flames into the air, its outlandish behavior continues naughtily into the night, almost unnoticed by city residents infected by similarly unpredictable manner. The fountain was designed by Ya'acov Agam, a leading Israeli artist known for his (obvious) predilection towards rainbow colour schemes.
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Ablutions Fountain
In the centre of the Jameh Mosque's main courtyard, which is surrounded by four contrasting iwans, is an attractive ablutions fountain designed to imitate the Kaaba at Mecca; would-be haj pilgrims would use it to practise the appropriate rituals. The two-storey porches around the courtyard's perimeter were constructed in the late 15th century.
reviewed
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C
Dubai Fountain
Against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa in the midst of a massive artificial lake, these choreographed dancing fountains are the antithesis of what you’d expect to find in the desert. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 150m to overwhelming soundtracks gathered from around the world.
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D
Mary's Well
Also known as the Virgin's Fountain, Mary's Well stands in a handsome-looking plaza in front of St Gabriel's Church. Some believe that the Angel Gabriel appeared here, and the water is said to have powers of healing.
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E
Ablutions Fountain
In the centre of the Umayyad Mosque courtyard is an odd square-shaped Ablutions Fountain topped by a wooden-canopied pulpit, while flanking it are two old columns that used to hold lamps.
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F
Musical Fountains
Located next to the ice-skating rink, this outdoor music and water display is said to have the 4th-largest set of fountains in the world.
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