The Bethesda Fountain is one of the most iconic features of Central Park in New York City. Here is an in-depth look at this landmark:
Located in the heart of Central Park at the end of the Central Park Mall, the fountain is found in the park's Bethesda Terrace. The fountain was designed by Emma Stebbins, making it one of the earliest major public art commissions by a woman in New York City.
The centerpiece of the fountain is the bronze statue known as the Angel of the Waters, which stands eight feet tall. The statue depicts an angel touching the water, symbolizing the healing waters of Bethesda Pool from the Gospel of John in the New Testament. This biblical reference was chosen to celebrate the completion of the city's new water system.
The fountain underwent a significant restoration in the early 1980s, led by the Central Park Conservancy, to repair damage from weather and vandalism. This effort helped preserve the fountain for future generations.