Gargoyles, Europe

January 9, 2008

(Notre Dame, Paris, France: I think). Photo by Amnon H Eden.

Gargoyles

Sculptures of gargoyles can be found on European medieval cathedrals. The word “Gargoyle” comes from the French gargouille, which literally means “to gurgle”.

These creatures represented death and destruction in France during medieval times. Legend has it the Gargouille first emerged from the Seine waters in the year 520. It was defeated by an archbishop who placed two fingers against one another in the form of the Cross.

Gargoyles on buildings projected outwards to direct the rain water off the roof and walls. The water would gush out of their mouths.

By the 16th century, plumbing (which was modern for the time) replaced the need for them. Gargoyles became more decorative than functional. However, they had become a popular tradition, which is why they’re still around today.

Reference: Guivre Facts

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