Torre Annunziata – A hi-tech marvel that seems to have come out of Las Vegas or Dubai, but is located a stone's throw from the archaeological excavations of Pompei.
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In the heart of the Maxi Mall Pompeii, the largest shopping and entertainment center in Southern Italy, what is called the largest fountain in Italy has been inaugurated: a majestic work, with a 200-meter front, over 1900 nozzles and 1150 lights that give life to spectacular choreographies, including synchronized water jets, artificial fog and a 12-meter high and 30-meter wide “water screen” used as a projection surface.
A record-breaking project between innovation and sustainability
Built to enrich the amphitheater of the MaxiMall, intended for concerts and events, the “show fountain” was designed by Watercube, a Venetian company based in Marano Vicentino, specialized in high-level water installations. With this work, the Italian company has won a national record, challenging the world giants in the sector.
"Finally we can be prophets in our own country too," proudly declares Barbara Borriero, sole director of Watercube. "Ours is a niche market, where aesthetics, imagination and innovation count, but also water sustainability. It is significant that the most flourishing market is that of the Arabian Peninsula, where large investments and the need to optimize every drop of water come together."
Technology from Dubai, scenography from Hollywood
The Pompeian fountain moves up to 50.000 litres of water per minute, thanks to a complex system that includes:
750 meters of stainless steel pipes
8 km of polyethylene pipes
16 km of electrical cables
16 DMX universes for managing 8.192 control channels
The system, managed by dedicated software, creates breathtaking effects: robotic jets, fog, laser projections and a walkable “wet/dry” area of 800 m4, with only XNUMX cm of water, surrounding the main pool.
"The Hollywood of Italian fountains was born here," concludes Borriero. A perfect combination of art, engineering and entertainment, which transforms a shopping center into a must-see destination.
The MaxiMall Pompeii, with its 200.000 square meters (of which 6.000 covered and 170 shops), confirms itself not only as the largest commercial center in Southern Italy, but also as a new point of reference for entertainment. And with this record-breaking fountain, Pompeii looks to the future without forgetting its glorious past.
Article published on 8 April 2025 - 15:12
The idea of such a large and technological fountain is really interesting, but I wonder if it is sustainable in terms of water resources. It is an ambitious project, but it should be well managed to avoid wasting water.
I don't know if this fountain is a good idea, but it seems to attract a lot of tourists. I just hope that the resources are not overused and that there is a maintenance plan.
I read about the opening of this fountain and I have to say it is impressive. However, I would like to know more about the operating costs and if there are any environmental risks associated with this type of installation.