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Attractions
The Jet d'Eau
One hundred and forty metres high and 500 litres of water per second at 200km/h: that’s the Jet d’eau! A true icon of Geneva, the gigantic water fountain has a beautiful story to tell but did you know that its presence in Geneva is almost an accident?
Do you know the secret of the Jet d’Eau?
In 1886 the hydraulic factory that distributed the Rhone’s energy to Geneva’s craftspeople and watchmakers was forced to create an open-air outlet for the over-pressurised water when the workshops closed in the evening. The place generated so much enthusiasm and excitement that it became a real attraction for locals and tourists.
In 1891 a new Jet d’Eau was created at its current location in the harbour. In 1951, thanks to a pumping station on the lake, it rose from 90 metres to a height of 140 metres. It should be noted that its height is now at its maximum and cannot be exceeded because of the surrounding houses, which would then run the risk of being sprayed with water!
Where does its colour come from?
The Jet d’eau owes its white colour to a nozzle that fills the projected water with millions of air bubbles. A lighting system lights up the water fountain for special events and tributes.
Find the calendar of illuminations here.
Who takes care of the Jet d’eau on a daily basis?
Five retirees from the Services Industriels de Genève take turns monitoring the Jet d’eau to shut off the valves when the wind blows too strong, or the temperatures are too low. The Jet d’eau guardians are always on the watch!
Good to know for maths enthusiasts: the amount of water propelled is super heavy!
Given that the average height of Geneva’s Jet d’eau is 140 metres, that the speed of the water is 200 km/h, and that its flow is 500 litres per second, one can work out that the water that is projected high above the lake weighs … 7 tonnes! And between its exit from the pipes and its return to the lake, each drop of water spends 16 seconds in the air. A magnificent and technical spectacle!
Walk right up to the Jet d’Eau via the mobile footbridge
An exceptional show for architecture lovers and thrill-seekers!! This unique invention provides pedestrian access for everyone on the Jet d’Eau pier while allowing boats to pass at given times.
In this ideal place to admire Geneva’s harbour, sunbathe, or take a memorable selfie with the Jet d’Eau, lies a jewel of ingenuity: the mobile footbridge, designed especially for this project and which can turn into a staircase when boats pass underneath! If you want to see the Jet d’Eau live, take a look here.
Check out the operating hours and the illuminations here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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The Jet d'Eau is located in Geneva harbour, known as 'La Rade', at the point where Lake Geneva exits as the Rhône River.
The Jet d'Eau shoots water up to 140 meters (460 feet) high, making it one of the tallest fountains in the world.
It pumps 500 liters of water per second at a speed of almost 200 km/h (124 mph).
Yes, viewing the Jet d'Eau is free and accessible to the public.
The Jet d'Eau is best viewed from the Bains des Pâquis, a popular local swimming and relaxation spot.
Yes, the fountain is illuminated for special events and tributes with colored lighting.
Yes, the fountain is shut down during strong wind or freezing temperatures to avoid spraying nearby areas and for safety.
Originally built in 1886 as a safety valve for an over-pressurized hydraulic system serving Geneva's watchmakers, it became a tourist attraction by 1891.
Visitors can approach the fountain via a stone jetty extending from the left bank of Lake Geneva, but should be prepared for possible splashes.
Visitors can contact Geneva Tourism at +41 (0)22 909 70 00 or visit geneve.com for details and guided tours.
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