The Science for Nature Foundation has restored 84 fountains across the country as part of the initiative “aLIVE Fountains”, which is embedded in the organisation’s long-term mission to protect nature and promote sustainable coexistence between people and biodiversity. 

Fountains are not just facilities; they are often the last remaining sign of life in abandoned hamlets. They embody the memory of a way of life that has already passed, and the hope that a small part of the human spirit is still among us. In the Balkans, fountains are a symbol of community and hospitality, a place where strangers meet, where travellers find rest, and where the village keeps its connection with nature alive. Each fountain carries a legend, and each drop of water preserves the memory of the hands that built it.

In Bulgaria, fountains are not only cultural and historical symbols, but also important ecological resources. Once restored, they become permanent water sources in areas where both wild and domestic animals rely on them for survival, especially during periods of drought, a challenge that people in the country will face more and more frequently.

Around fountains, biodiversity concentrates. Water attracts insects, which in turn support the food base for bats and birds. Bats, for instance, find essential food resources here, mosquitoes and other flying insects. Thus, a seemingly small intervention, such as restoring a fountain, has a far-reaching effect on entire ecosystems, creating conditions for rich and sustainable habitats.

This joint effort has fostered a sense of belonging and responsibility, which in turn encourages local people to continue caring for the restored fountains in the future.

We express our gratitude to all donors, partners, volunteers, and local communities who contributed their energy and enthusiasm to the restoration of these fountains!

Part of the fountain restoration activities is carried out within the framework of the project “LIFE Under One Roof” (LIFE17 NAT/BG/000602), funded by the European Union’s LIFE Programme https://batslife.eu/bg