Dolphins at Walt Disney World

On several occasions, while driving along World Drive with out-of-town friends or family, we pass by the Dolphin resort. Invariably someone says, “That doesn’t look like Flipper.” Well, it’s not supposed to look like a “real” dolphin. It’s a representation of a mythological dolphin. Architect Michael Graves selected both the dolphin and swan because they represent both a contemporary and mythological symbol for water. And just for the record, these dolphins stand 56 feet high and weigh approximately 60,000 pounds.

For thousands of years, tales of dolphins, whales, and porpoises have found their way into worldwide mythology. Collectively these creatures are known as cetacea and their popularity may stem from their large size and playful qualities. In addition, numerous legends tell of these animals coming to the aid of fishermen and sailors.

But the Dolphin Resort isn’t the only place you can find these mythological creatures at Walt Disney World. I found several others. Probably the next best example is the Neptune Fountain in the Italy Pavilion at Epcot.

The Greeks called their “God of the Sea” Poseidon and he was usually accompanied by his trident and one or more dolphins, who were his messengers. When Rome adopted the Greek gods as their own, they often changed little more than their name. This statue is a good example.

But this imposing fountain isn’t the only place that you can find dolphins in the Italy Pavilion. Take a look at the door handles on the Il Bel Cristallo shop.

In the United Kingdom Pavilion, there is a small fountain located in front of the restrooms. On top of this fountain is another dolphin.

And it wasn’t just the western cultures that embraced the dolphin. In Hindu mythology, Ganga, the deity of the Ganges River is associated with the dolphin, who heralds her descent from the heavens.

Nagoya Castle in Japan is adorned with golden dolphins or Kinshachi. These creatures were a symbol of the feudal lord’s authority. In the Japan Pavilion in Epcot, you can see copies of these dolphins atop the blue tiled roof of its castle.

When entering the Yacht Club Resort, guests come face to face with an ancient globe of the world.

Look closely and you’ll see the earth is supported by a pair of dolphins.

Also, if you carefully examine this globe you’ll find a hidden Mickey next to another dolphin.

If you travel to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can find another collection of mythical dolphins, this time on the Mermaid Fountain.

This fountain is from the Disney movie “Splash” starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. Look beneath the fountain and you’ll find four dolphins.

These are the dolphins I’ve found around Walt Disney World. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are more. If you find some, let me know where and I’ll check it out. I’m sure there are more within the Dolphin Resort, but I’m not going to include those in my search since this would be too obvious a place to look for them.

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