The trick fountain concept originated in the 18th century as a way for Peter the Great and his successors to tease guests in the palace gardens.
The water pressure for these fountains is supplied by the same gravity-fed system that powers the main cascades of Peterhof, utilizing the elevation difference of the Ropsha hills.
The hidden mechanism was designed to be pressure-sensitive, requiring a specific weight to trigger the water flow.
These fountains are situated in the Alexandria Park, a more private and secluded area compared to the crowded Lower Park of Peterhof.
The 'Skameyki' (Benches) trick fountains are located in the Alexandria Park area of Peterhof, designed to surprise visitors with hidden water jets. Unlike traditional fountains, these installations resemble standard garden benches that activate when a visitor sits or approaches, triggering vertical water sprays from the ground. They are part of the broader Peterhof water engineering complex, historically intended for the amusement of the Imperial court. The mechanism relies on concealed pipes and valves buried beneath the pavement. These trick fountains represent the 18th and 19th-century fascination with mechanical ingenuity and garden playfulness. They operate as part of the site's hydraulic systems, which rely on natural gravitational pressure from the Ropsha heights. Visitors are often caught off guard by the sudden activation of water columns.
Position yourself at a safe distance with a zoom lens to capture the reaction of companions as the fountains trigger.
Observe the ground patterns and dampness on the tiles nearby to identify the trigger zones before sitting.
Keep electronic devices and non-waterproof bags away from the immediate bench area while testing them.
Visit during a warm day to fully enjoy the cooling effect of the water surprise.
Do not assume all benches in the area are dry; check for wet ground markings before relaxing.
Operates only during the summer season; inactive during winter months due to sub-zero temperatures.
