What is the purpose of Gargoyles on many churches?
Have you ever studied Gargoyles? They are fascinating creatures, who actually serve a purpose on buildings they adorn around the world. The very thought conjures images of hideous, brooding creatures perched high above cities and villages The most terrifying ones look as though they might break free from the stone and attack. When gargoyles began appearing on churches throughout Europe in the 13th century, they served as decorative water spouts, crafted to preserve stone walls by diverting the flow of rainwater outward from rooftops. This function, technically speaking, distinguishes gargoyles from other stone beasts. The word gargoyle derives from the…