Nymphaea in the Roman East: Utility vs. Aesthetics?

Monumental fountains, also called nymphaea, were ubiquitous along the streets and squares of the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire. Because of the decorative character of their columnar façades filled with statues and enhanced with water, they have long been considered as mere mostre d’acqua designed as urban décor. However, they also provide plenty of architectural and technical evidence indicative of complex utilitarian functions. This interplay between practical and representative functions was the strength of Roman nymphaea, genuine urban multi-media avant la lettre.