Swarovski Crystal Head Fountain
It is quite surprising that more attention is not given to the very breathtaking Swarovski Crystal Head Fountain in Austria. It is quite honestly one of the most intriguing and unusual displays in the world. The glass covered, giant outdoor water feature is built directly into a hillside, and offers an amazing display year-round, even in the winter. This is not something many fountains can say.
Fountain Location
Where might you find such a captivating display? Well, guarding the crystal company's crystal-themed museum, of course. Swarovski Crystal Worlds, also known as Swarovski Kristavwetten is a museum built in 1995 to celebrate the Austria-based crystal company's 100th anniversary.
The museum has 14 chambers, each one more dazzling than the last. However, it is the fountain, nicknamed "The Giant" and "The Crystaloscope" that draws the most attention.
Fountain Designer
The magnificent designer behind this extraordinary piece is Andre Heller, an Austrian artist, actor, author, poet, singer, and songwriter. He was born into a wealthy family in Vienna. Acting, art, music, and any other type of lessons he wanted to take were at his disposal. It is nice to see that he found a way to put everything he has learned along with his creativity to good use.
Heller is also responsible for designing the 14 Chambers of Wonder, which are all dedicated to artistic interpretation of crystal in unique ways.
About the Fountain
As mentioned, the massive head is built into a hillside. Its shimmering crystal eyes vary from enchanting to creepy, depending on the lighting. It is the largest kaleidoscope on the planet. To ensure perfection, Heller consulted with holistic practitioner, Peter Mandelin throughout the process. Water flows from the mouth of the face into a large pool, and at night, lights under the water shine upward into the flow of water for an even more stunning display. You essentially walk into the side of the fountain to enter the museum.
Of course, Austria is not without cold temperatures and snow in the winter. You might think the fountain would lose its charm, but it really doesn't. Even when the landscape is covered in snow and the water has frozen; it still brings a magical presence to the area.
Visiting the Fountain
You can see the fountain without gaining admittance to the museum. However, as long as you are there you might as well check out everything else. There is a shuttle that runs every two hours to and from the site of the fountain and Innsbruck.