On April 30 Moscow opens its traditional season of fountains. The first fountains appeared in Moscow in he 18th century, near the Pashkov House and Trubnaya Square. They were not only architectural sights but served prosaic purposes supplying townsfolk with water for drinking. In the early 20th century Moscow had only 74 fountains. Today there are more than 200.

The most impressive fountain complex on Poklonnaya Gora, commemorates World War Two. Its cascades are especially beautiful at night, when the jets of water are illuminated with red lights. The magnificent Kolos (Ear of Grain) fountain on grounds of the All-Russia Exhibition Center symbolizes the imperial splendor of the Stalin era. Landmarks of recent years include Princess Turandot on Arbat street, fountains at Nikitskie vorota,Manejnaya Square, The Tsvetnoi boulevard, and floating fountains on the Vodootvodny Bypass.

There is a time honored tourist tradition to throw coin into a fountain in order to return to the same place. Last autumn over two tons of coins were lifted from the bottom of Moscow fountains! What better proof that many guest would like to revisit the Russian capital?