2006-07-13 14:07:08 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Mythology & Folklore
Originally, they were used as decorative coverings for waterspouts, to divert rainwater away from the building, but later came into use as decorations for the higher reaches of churches and cathedrals. The name seems to have originated from the myth of La Gargouille from France, the word itself meaning 'throat', or 'gargle'. The earliest original waterspouts, pouring a cascade of rain, sounded as though they were gargling, so this may have been how they were named.
Other creatures served as architectural ornaments that some believed were the souls of the condemned turned to stone to pay the price of their sins for all eternity.
best I can do
2006-07-13 14:16:27 · answer #1 · answered by Bear Naked 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gargoyles were protective creatures meant to ward off evil spirits from a building, such as a church or high rise office building. The chained gargoyle of turin is one of these fanciful beasts, and is chained like a household dog might be when protecting the outside of a building from unwanted intruders. Most of the gargoyles are associated with the medieval period of gothic architecture in Europe. I assume the original gargoyle was found in one of these churches in the city of Turin, Italy. Copies of famous gargoyles are currently the rage among certain New Age and Goth-minded folks, It's a way to go for some poeple, I suppose. UC Steve
2006-07-13 14:21:10 · answer #2 · answered by UCSteve 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A broad-shouldered beast is a fierce watchdog for your front gate, grounds, or hearth. No chain can restrain him or his spirit or his unique artistry can be seen in the gargoyle’s appealing, wrinkled face and elongated toes.
2006-07-13 14:42:37 · answer #3 · answered by Tracy C 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow, I'll have to look for these when I'm there!
2006-07-14 05:09:27 · answer #4 · answered by heather k 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋