If you are fascinated by Gothic architecture, you might have noticed some strange and scary creatures adorning the roofs and walls of many cathedrals and churches. These are gargoyles, a type of grotesque sculpture that has a practical as well as an aesthetic function. In this article, we will explore the history and meaning of some of the most famous gargoyle statues around the world.
What is a gargoyle?
A gargoyle is a carved or formed grotesque with a spout designed to convey water from a roof and away from the side of a building, thereby preventing it from running down masonry walls and eroding the mortar between. Architects often used multiple gargoyles on a building to divide the flow of rainwater off the roof to minimize potential damage from rainstorms. A trough is cut in the back of the gargoyle and rainwater typically exits through the open mouth. Gargoyles are usually elongated fantastical animals because their length determines how far water is directed from the wall. When Gothic flying buttresses were used, aqueducts were sometimes cut into the buttress to divert water over the aisle walls.
The term gargoyle originates from the French “gargouille,” which in English is likely to mean "throat" or is otherwise known as the "gullet". It is also connected to the French verb “gargariser,” which shares a Latin root with the verb "gargle" and is likely imitative in origin.
The difference between a gargoyle and a grotesque is that a gargoyle has an additional purpose of serving as a waterspout, while a grotesque is used only for decoration. A grotesque or a chimera is a mythical figure that is used to adorn the exterior of the building. For centuries, both the grotesques and gargoyles were used as protective figures which chase away evil spirits. They are mostly guardians of churches and cathedrals.
Here are some of the most famous gargoyle statues in the world:
1. Notre Dame Cathedral
One of the most famous examples of gargoyles is those on the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. They were in use until the 16th century, when drain pipes were installed in the building. Today, these magnificent statues are just ornamental. The best-known grotesques are those which peer over the town, at the top of the cathedral, situated in front of the most famous bell of the building.
2. Tallinn Town Hall
Another impressive example of gargoyles can be seen on the main façade of the Tallinn Town Hall, Estonia. There are two unique and identical dragon-headed gargoyles on the main façade which have a golden crown and large white teeth. They were designed and made by the coppersmith Daniel Pöppel.
3. Bern Minster Cathedral
On the tallest cathedral in Switzerland, Bern Minster, there is a unique gargoyle which is a stone mason bent in despair, holding a hammer. It was designed by Erhart Kung and Burkhart Engelberg who decorated the whole façade of the building. This gargoyle can be seen on the front façade of the cathedral.
4. Milan Cathedral
"At the renowned Milan Cathedral, one of the world's iconic structures, there are 3,400 statues, including 135 striking gargoyles. In 2012, to ensure their preservation, these gargoyles were made available for adoption. Donors contributing 100,000 euros or more will have their names engraved beneath the statues they support.
5. Florence Cathedral
At the Florence Cathedral in Italy stands a particularly eerie gargoyle named Il Boccalone, translating to "the big mouth". This massive head, with its wide-open mouth, channels water into a basin beneath. Sculpted by Andrea Pisano in 1334, it's believed to depict Filippo Brunelleschi, one of the key architects of the cathedral's iconic dome.
These are just some examples of the fascinating gargoyles and grotesques that can be found on many Gothic buildings around the world. They are not only functional but also artistic expressions of human imagination and creativity.
There’s also a talking gargoyle that is surprising visitors at Denver International Airport, you can discover it in this following video: