Ross Fountain

Sculpted by artist Jean-Baptiste Jules Klagmann, this fountain has been made from cast-iron, a shining example of 19th century sculpture. If you take a closer look at the base of the fountain, there are mermaids, walrus and lion heads and cherrubs. At the top are featured four female figures representing science, arts, poetry and industry. In 1862, a local gun maker Mr Daniel Ross saw the fountain in London at the Great Exhibition and described it as "obtaining universal admiration". As a gift to Edinburgh city, in September 1869 Daniel Ross bought the sculpture and had the 122 pieces shipped to Leith where they would later be sent to Princes Street Gardens to be asembled. Sadly before the fountain was completed and offically opened in 1872, David Ross died one year before, missing the opportunity to see the masterpiece displayed in the gardens. In July 2017, four mermaids took flight over Princes Street Gardens, as pieces of the Ross Fountain were carefully dismantled and lifted away for vital conservation work. All 122 pieces of the landmark sculpture were transported to the workshop of Lost Art, where they were restored to their former glory.The formal switch-on took place on Sunday 8th July 2018.

Ross fountain is a stunning fountain nestled in the heart of Princes' Street Gardens. It offers a stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and has intricate designs.