The Jet d’eau – a symbol steeped in history

Since 1891, the Jet d'Eau has been enlivening the heart of Geneva. As the owner of this water monument, SIG ensures its ongoing operation and maintenance.

At the end of the 19th century, Geneva craftsmen used to the energy generated by a hydraulic plant located on the Rhone to operate their machinery. To release the excess pressure that built up during the evening time when any activity had ceased, it was decided to create a valve – and this is how the Jet d’Eau was born, which only measured a “mere" 30 metres.

A few years later, the City of Geneva decided to turn it into a tourist attraction. The Jet was then moved to the end of the Eaux-Vives wharf, in the centre of the bay.

It was not until 1951 that the Jet d’Eau reached its current size of 140 metres. This technical feat was made possible by building an autonomous pumping station.

To celebrate awareness-raising, humanitarian or promotional events of international Geneva, the Jet is adorned with the most beautiful colours that light up the heart of the bay.

Today, five volunteer SIG retirees watch over it to ensure its proper working order and to shut it down when weather conditions require it, be it when temperatures drop to around zero degrees, when the wind is too strong, etc.