Origins of Chimenea

Warm outdoor dining spaces with traditional Mexican clay chimeneas.

Chimenea is a word foreign to many people outside of the southwestern United States. These traditional clay fireplaces are used to heat outdoor spaces like gardens and patios. The chimenea also can be used as a cooking oven.

Description

Chimeneas are easily recognizable due to their unique shape. These fireplaces feature a bulblike oven topped with a skinny, long neck. The neck serves as a built-in chimney.

History

According to the Patio Living website, chimeneas hail from Mexico and date back more than 400 years. Traditionally they developed in the highlands of Mexico, where original chimenea clay is found.

Uses

Historically, chimeneas were used as the primary cooking appliance for Mexican families. They were used both indoors and outdoors, according to the Bella Online website. Modern chimeneas primarily decorate outdoor living spaces throughout southwestern America. These clay creations often serve as outdoor heaters, allowing homeowners to get more use out of their space.

References

• Patio Living: Origins of Clay Chimeneas
• Bella Online: What is a Chimenea?