Gargoyles have been in existence since Greek and Roman times when they were made from clay. In the 13th century in Europe and other countries gargoyles were made of stone and added to examples of Gothic architecture. They were first used on buildings to scare away evil spirits. They also had a functional use. They directed water away from buildings. The word gargoyle comes from "gargouille" meaning throat in Old French. Each of the early gargoyles were like fountains in that water collected along the eaves of buildings went down the gargoyle’s throat and was directed away from the building into the alley. This protected the buildings from rotting caused by the excess water. Some appear in churches. Others serve as art pieces. Some modern gargoyles appear to resemble totems.
