Serene and symmetrical. That’s the Pulgas Water Temple.

It’s a neat monument tucked away not far from Filoli Gardens. The Beaux Arts style temple commemorates the successful completion of the Hetch Hetchy Project which directed water from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Bay Area. According to the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, the structure was designed by San Francisco architect William Merchant who included features such as fluted columns and Corinthian capitals in reference to ancient Greek and Roman architecture. This choice of architecture is especially fitting because classical techniques were also used for the new water system. Whether you’re a fan of beautiful architecture or a great photo op, the Pulgas Water Temple is a nice stop for a relaxing walk on a beautiful Bay Area day.