Cascading Waterfall, Fountain and sculpture in Columbia Heights, United States
Cascading Waterfall is a fountain and sculpture in Washington, D.C., consisting of thirteen semicircular basins that channel water down through multiple levels within Meridian Hill Park's retaining wall. The system features water jets, decorative masks, and shell-shaped spillways across its tiers.
The fountain was designed by John Joseph Earley in 1936 and pioneered the use of aggregated concrete in the surrounding walkways on a worldwide scale. It marked an important moment in the history of modern concrete construction and landscape design.
The fountain serves as a gathering place where visitors sit on the steps and watch the water flow through its levels. The sound of water creates a focal point that draws people together throughout the day.
The fountain is easily reached on foot within the park and sits in a central location with good pathways and seating nearby. Water flows most reliably during warmer months, so visiting in spring or summer typically offers the best experience.
Four dolphin spray heads release water into a system that was once recognized as the country's largest cascading fountain installation. These animal figures add a playful quality to the artwork that visitors often miss when focused solely on the water cascade.
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