The Swiss Granite Fountain is at the junction of the Cissus Trellis, Lawn E and the Frangipani Collection in Singapore Botanic Gardens. Look for a round granite sphere set into a larger stone base. NParks says water pressure holds the sphere afloat.
Use the official Gardens map to locate the Frangipani Collection before choosing a gate. The photograph shows Bukit Timah Gate beside Botanic Gardens MRT, an arrival point for a longer walk through the grounds.
- Look for · Lawn E, Cissus Trellis and the Frangipani Collection.
- Artist · Swiss sculptor Ueli Fausch.
- Installed · Donated by the Swiss community in Singapore in 1991.
- Detail to spot · A granite sphere supported by water pressure.
Find the junction near the Frangipani Collection
Open the Gardens map and locate the Frangipani Collection and Lawn E. Use these landmarks together, as the Gardens have several fountains. If you are meeting a group, share the fountain’s full name and the landmarks in the same message.
If you arrive via Botanic Gardens MRT, use Bukit Timah Gate. Napier MRT serves the Tanglin entrance. Choose an approach based on the other stops you want to make and check the current Gardens notices before setting out.
Look at the gap between the sphere and its base
NParks describes a granite sphere weighing 700kg fitted into a larger stone block. If the fountain is running, look for the thin layer of water around the base of the sphere. The display is a chance to connect the water you can see with the pressure that supports the stone.
With children, ask where they think the water enters and where it flows out. Draw the sphere and base separately. Mark the place where the water is visible and compare your sketch with what you observe from the path.
Pair the fountain with a plant stop
The Frangipani Collection is a practical second stop because it is one of the landmarks at the junction. The plants give you a different subject to observe after the stone and water. If you also plan to see Hoya House, check its separate hours before extending the walk.
If water is absent when you visit, you can still see the sculpture’s two main forms. Use the NParks sculptures page to see how it is meant to operate.
Contents · Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Swiss Granite Fountain?
At the junction of the Cissus Trellis, Lawn E and the Frangipani Collection.
Who made it?
NParks credits Swiss sculptor Ueli Fausch.
How heavy is the ball?
NParks gives its weight as 700kg.
What makes the sphere float?
NParks says water pressure supports it in the granite base.