Water Mixer Taps, Kitchen and Bath Faucet History. Plumbing systems have existed since ancient times. Around 1700 B.C., the Minoan Palace of Knossos on the isle of Crete featured terra cotta piping that provided water for fountains and faucets of marble, gold, and silver. Lead pipe systems and personal bath rooms also existed during the Roman period, from about 1000 … [Read more...] about Water Mixer Taps: Kitchen and Bath Faucet History