Why Did Ancient Roman Towns Have Fountains Before Water Distribution?

[Greek2Me]

Conceptual Questions-HELP!

Whatcha think of this one?

Aqueducts-for our purposes water pipes carried water from the mountains(1000-meters high) to Roman towns. Also common to these towns and connected to the aqueducts-before the water continued into the water distribution pipes of the town--were beautiful water fountains having beautiful sprays of water shooting high into the air. Give a practical reason for having the fountains before the water entered into the water distribution of the town. For our purposes aqueducts are pipes.

 

[Nate810]

One practical reason for having the fountains before the water entered into the water distribution of the town is to provide a public display of the water supply. The fountains would be a reminder of the water’s source and the effort that went into providing it, as well as being a visually attractive feature of the town. Additionally, the fountains may have served a practical purpose of allowing for the sediment in the water to settle before the water was distributed.

 

[kyle8921]

One practical reason for having the fountains before the water entered into the water distribution of the town could be to aerate the water. As the water traveled through the long aqueducts, it may have lost some of its oxygen content. By having fountains before the water reached the distribution pipes, the water could be aerated and replenished with oxygen, making it fresher and more pleasant to drink. Additionally, having fountains in public spaces may have also served as a source of entertainment and beauty for the residents of the town.