Jet d'Eau (Water-Jet), Geneva (must see)

The Water-Jet (Jet d'Eau) is a prominent fountain located in Geneva and stands as one of the city's key attractions. Originally established in 1886, its primary function was to act as a safety release for a hydraulic power network. Positioned initially at a different site, the fountain was later moved in 1891 to its current location as a part of the celebration for the Federal Gymnastics Festival and the Swiss Confederation's 600th anniversary. The current version of the Water-Jet was installed in 1951, housed in a partly submerged pumping station.

Today, it's recognized as one of the world's tallest fountains and is a distinct feature of the Geneva skyline, even visible from up to 10 kilometers (about 33,000 feet) in the air. The fountain propels 500 liters (132 gallons) of water per second to a height of 140 meters (459 feet) at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour (124 miles per hour). At any moment, approximately 7,000 liters (1,849 gallons) of water are in the air.

Visitors can access the fountain via a stone pier on the lake's left bank. However, they should be wary of sudden wind shifts that can lead to an unexpected soaking.

Since 2003, the Water-Jet has been operational during daylight hours throughout the year, weather permitting, and also functions in the evenings from spring to autumn, enhanced by 21 lights.