The inscription on the frieze reads: 'I give waters in the wilderness and rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people.'
The temple was originally closed to the public for decades until it was refurbished and reopened in 2004.
The monument sits directly above a large concrete junction box that directs water flow into the Crystal Springs Reservoir.
The Corinthian columns are made of cast stone, designed to mimic the appearance of ancient marble structures.
The reflecting pool is fed by the Hetch Hetchy water supply, which originates in Yosemite National Park.
Architect William Merchant was selected for the design after winning a competition held by the San Francisco Water Department.
The Pulgas Water Temple is a Beaux-Arts monument designed by architect William Merchant to commemorate the completion of the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct. Constructed in 1934, the structure features a circular colonnade of Corinthian columns framing a reflecting pool. The monument marks the terminus of the 160-mile aqueduct system that delivers Sierra Nevada mountain water to the San Francisco Peninsula. The design was inspired by the ancient Greek Tholos of Delphi. The site is owned and maintained by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. It is situated within a landscaped park setting featuring mature trees and lawn areas. The monument serves as both a functional water control facility and a public memorial to the engineering project.
From the center of the lawn facing the temple with the colonnade framed by the reflecting pool in the foreground.
Bring a picnic blanket as there are designated lawn areas surrounding the monument.
Park in the designated gravel lot off Cañada Road, as street parking is strictly prohibited.
Keep a safe distance from the water's edge, as the pool is part of a high-pressure municipal water system.
Do not attempt to swim or wade in the reflecting pool, as it is a protected water supply.
Closed on weekends and major holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume, as the area is intended for reflection; no professional photography permit-free sessions are allowed.
