Moscow’s Most Beautiful Fountains
Here’s a list of the city’s finest
They turn heads, steal the show in parks and squares, sparkle in the sun, sing, dance — and they’ve become beloved landmarks. These are Moscow’s most spectacular fountains, each with its own story, style, and touch of magic.
Petrovsky Fountain (Vitali Fountain) near the Bolshoi Theatre
This neoclassical beauty dates back to 1835 and was designed by sculptor Giovanni Vitali. Four bronze cherubs — symbolising comedy, tragedy, music, and poetry — hold up the upper basin, while the main bowl sits atop a grand pedestal. Once a source of drinking water, the fountain originally had metal troughs, water spouts, and even a hidden service room tucked into one of its arches. Twin staircases with delicate railings complete the elegant look. Its water-supply function was retired in the early 20th century, but the charm remains.
Address: Teatralnaya Square
GUM Fountain
Tucked under the glass roof of the famous GUM department store next to Red Square, this charming indoor fountain is a favourite among Muscovites and tourists alike. Originally built in the early 1900s, it was revamped in the mid-20th century with a marble octagonal bowl and a slim bronze column topped by a tiny dome. Open all year round (yes, even in winter!), it’s a popular meeting point and a nostalgic photo op.
Address: Red Square, 3
Slanted Fountain in Birzhevaya Square
Installed when Birzhevaya Square became a pedestrian zone in 2017–18, this minimalist fountain quickly became a local landmark. It looks like a giant coin tilted into the water — its round granite slab angled just enough to catch your eye. By day, the jets play gently over the surface; by night, they’re lit with vibrant colours and shoot several metres high. Sleek, modern, and quietly mesmerising.
Address: Birzhevaya Square
Fountains in Manege Square
Right in the heart of Moscow, near the Kremlin and Red Square, lies a whole ensemble of 12 fountains designed by Zurab Tsereteli. From the bronze horses galloping in The Seasons to the arching jets of The Curtain and whimsical designs like The Snail, The Grotto, and The Cascade — there’s plenty to discover. Don’t miss the rotating Clock of the World whose glass dome doubles as a globe. Alongside the fountains there are also fairytale sculptures: a golden fish, Alyonushka, the Firebird, and others beloved by generations.
Address: Manezhnaya Square, 1с2
Princess Turandot near the Vakhtangov Theatre
This eye-catching fountain, installed in 1997, is more than decoration — it’s a tribute to the theatre’s legendary production of Turandot. The golden statue of the princess, perched on a high throne, has become an Arbat icon. Set within an oval granite basin, the whole structure glows in the evening with subtle lighting, making for a romantic stop on any stroll through Moscow’s old city.
Address: Arbat Street, 26
Dancing Fountain in Gorky Park
This playful fountain sits in the Parterre of Gorky Park and has a long history: it dates back to the 1930s (originally located closer to Krymsky Val). For a time, it was crowned by the famous Girl with an Oar statue. In 1955, it was relocated and redesigned for the World Festival of Youth and Students, and in 1980, it was upgraded into a light-and-music fountain. Every summer evening, its jets dance in sync with music, gleaming under spotlights and delighting audiences of all ages.
The Golden Sheaf at VDNH
Standing proudly in the middle of Kamensky Pond, this 16-metre-tall sheaf of wheat is one of VDNH’s largest and most striking fountains. Created in 1954 and restored in 2018, the sculpture is surrounded by three cornucopias overflowing with fruit and vegetables. The shimmering gold smalt covering the fountain gives it a radiant glow, especially in the sunlight. With 66 water jets shooting up to 25 metres high, it’s a true golden spectacle — celebrating abundance and beauty in equal measure.
The Stone Flower at VDNH
Unveiled in 1954, this iconic fountain was inspired by the fairy tales of Pavel Bazhov. Right at the centre blooms the legendary Stone Flower, ringed by sculpted “gems” that twinkle in the evening lights. Its bronze pedestals are adorned with ornate still-life scenes — fruit bowls and jugs — that give it a touch of vintage opulence. Restored in 2019, the fountain has been returned to its original splendour and makes a perfect backdrop for a sunny stroll or a memorable photo.
Address: Mira Avenue, 119
Friendship of Peoples at VDNH
This grand fountain on the Central Alley has become a symbol not just of VDNH, but of Moscow itself. Like the Stone Flower, it made its debut in 1954 and has been dazzling ever since. In the middle stands a golden sheaf of wheat, surrounded by gilded statues of women in traditional dress — each representing one of the Soviet republics. The fountain’s jets soar up to 20 metres, especially stunning at night when bathed in colourful lights, and the golden circle of dancers comes alive.
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