The Sun Fountain

Fontaine du Soleil is a fountain in Peterhof featuring a bronze column surrounded by sixteen gilded dolphins at its base. The column's crown holds rotating gilded disks that spray water into intricate patterns when the fountain operates.

Construction took place between 1721 and 1724 under architect N. Michetti as part of the palace complex. Severe damage during the Second World War required reconstruction, with operations resuming in 1956.

The fountain blends water and motion into a visual spectacle where the rotating gilded disks at its crown resemble a spinning sun. Visitors watch how the water jets change patterns as the column turns throughout the display.

The fountain operates from May through October when temperatures allow water systems to function safely. Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the water jets and how the gilded disks shine in sunlight.

A hidden water wheel inside the pedestal drives the column's rotation using only natural water pressure from the palace systems. This ingenious mechanism demonstrates how 18th century Russian engineers transformed flowing water into continuous spinning motion.