The Fountain of Flame
A short description of a fountain in Sevilla which plays music through an hydaulic mechanism
Arnie Dunn
6/13/20261 min read
6 June 2026 Seville.
This construction is know as The Fountain of Flame. It’s located in the gardens of the Real-Alcazar in Sevilla.
It is predominately a terracotta and stucco facade incorporating a water feature and planting but incorporates a sound element. Hydraulic pressure forces air into pipes which in turn make sound waves. A pipe organ played by water pressure.
The style is Baroque and is similar to other European palace “peasantesque” entertainment for the aristocracy, but is a really early example. Not only as good as was available, it was one of the first off the shelf. This reflects on the power and wealth of the patron Phillip the third.
Built between 1614 and 1619 by Vermondo Resta, the mechanism and hydraulic chamber were refurbished in 2006 by Professor Leonardo Lombardi. A great example of sound in art.
