Sunol Water Temple

The Sunol Water Temple stands as a 59-foot-high classical pavilion featuring twelve concrete Corinthian columns supporting a conical red tile roof, designed by architect Willis Polk in 1910.

Built in 1910 by the Spring Valley Water Company, the temple marked the confluence of three water sources that supplied San Francisco before the city acquired the facility in 1930 for $40 million.

The temple's interior ceiling displays decorative paintings by artist Yun Gee depicting mythological women and Native American figures carrying water vessels, symbolizing water's cultural significance throughout history.

The temple is located at 505 Paloma Way in Sunol and was previously open Monday through Friday for public visits, though current access may be restricted due to ongoing restoration projects.

Unlike typical monuments, this temple was designed as a functional water processing facility that could handle up to six million gallons daily while serving as an architectural tribute to classical Roman temples.

Location: California

Architects: Willis Polk

GPS coordinates: 37.58540,-121.88500

Latest update: July 23, 2025 15:16