Facts on Pergolas

The pergola is a structure that provides shade, but not shelter. It is a landscape element designed to support vines and an open passageway to connect separate buildings. Originally constructed from organic materials to form a series of arches for the comfort of royalty as they passed from one building to the next, the pergola has evolved into a distinct element of architectural interest.

History

The origin of the word pergola is from the Latin pergula, which refers to an overhanging eave or projection.

Time Frame

Though the pergola was used in ancient Egyptian architecture, the modern pergola is more closely related to those found in Italian architecture of the 15th century.

Identification

Pergolas were often used as open walkways between buildings. They are defined by their rows of support, either wood or stone, with trellis work overhead.

Function

The trellises were often used to support grapevines and other climbing plants. These plants subsequently provided shade during the summer months.

Types

Pergolas evolved over time to take on many forms. They became freestanding structures that were part of garden landscapes throughout Europe and America in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Significance

The modern pergola can be freestanding or attached to a structure. They are enjoying an architectural resurgence as open-air rooms, providing shade and architectural interest to outdoor spaces.