Moscow's iconic fountains get a spring refresh ahead of season

Moscow has started its annual spring clean-up of public fountains after the winter months. Crews are now preparing the city's water features for the new season, which usually opens in late April. The first sites to be serviced include the fountains on Pushkin Square and in Novopushkinsky Garden.

On 31 March, city workers began by cleaning the fountains in the Aquarium Garden, located in central Moscow. A team of three specialists is handling the task, using high-pressure equipment and a street-washing truck. They scrub the basins with brushes and wash them thoroughly with detergent.

The two fountains on Pushkin Square have distinct designs. The first features a granite basin with three cast-iron bowls, built in a classical style. The second is elliptical, with water jets arranged in a circular pattern at its centre. Both are fitted with decorative lighting for evening displays. Before restarting the fountains, technicians will inspect underground drainage, hydraulics, and pump systems. They will also check the water-jet components to ensure everything functions properly. By the end of April, the city aims to restore over 2,000 public spaces, including all major fountains.

The cleaning and maintenance work follows a set schedule each year. Once complete, the fountains will be ready for operation by late April. Residents and visitors can expect the water features to run smoothly throughout the warmer months.