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Pergolas

History of Pergolas

Introduction to Pergolas

Pergolas have stood the test of time. Although their styles, materials, and name may have changed, their purpose has remained the same for over 3000 years. The earliest known surviving garden plan, dating back to about 1400 BC, belonged to an Egyptian high court official of Thebes; details a pergola over the entry way into the garden. What inspired the creation of pergolas is debatable, perhaps it was purely for their aesthetic beauty, or maybe motivated by the weather. The truth is that they are able to provide both functions wonderfully, and thus have become a timeless entity.

Pergolas have served many purposes throughout time. Pergolas have served as beautiful hanging gardens for the rich elite. Pergolas have also served as a functional means for certain species of harvestable vegetation to grow for the common worker, and even provided a means for vining plants to climb for the backyard enthusiast. They have been elegant shade structures, protecting all types of people from the harshness of the sun’s rays, or fury of an April storm. Pergolas have come a long way since their creation and are no longer reserved for just the rich elite.

Pergola Covered by Bougainvillea in Santa Cruz

The Origin of 'Pergola'

An Ancient Pergola in Italy's Renaissance Garden

The word pergola is derived from the Latin word “pergula” which refers to a “projecting eave”, commonly found as an extended roof or arbor. The first known use of the term pergola dates back to the 1640’s during the late medieval period. It was used by John Evelyn at the cloister of Trinita dei Monti in Rome. This photo, from the Medici Villas built near Florence around the 16th century is a good example of what Evelyn was describing. Similarly during this time, Eastern Asia was creating their own pergola structures which featured curved beams that emulated their arched architecture structure of their pagodas.

Pergolas Through the Ages

The Great Italian Renaissance in the 17th century brought new life to the pergola. Perhaps, more for their beauty than the functionality, this artistic revival period brought with it pergolas that featured smooth stone pillars that were large and dramatic. The pergolas of the 19th and early 20th century are most epitomized by the great garden designers like Sir Edwin Lutyens, and Gertrude Jekyll.

Modern pergolas are generally not crafted from the same stone and brick that previous generations seemed to favor. Today’s technology has not been lost on pergolas. Materials like vinyl and fiberglass, all offered at GazeboCreations, make pergolas that will last a lifetime, and require little to no maintenance. Conversely, stylish pergolas, or simplistically functional Vintage Classic Pergola or a Belvedere Pergola made from GazeboCreations’s #1 Grade Red Cedar, or #1 Grade Treated Pine have become the industry standard.

8' x 12' Modern Vinyl Vintage Classic Wall Mount Pergola

The Future of Pergolas

Throughout history, pergolas have been used to cover walkways, roads, or used as extensions to buildings. They have been crafted as permanent structures made of stone and rock, and in more modern times, vinyl and fiberglass. Pergolas have found their home and origins in Greece, Egypt, France, Asia, and have since spread to all corners of the world. The timeless simplicity and functionality of pergolas will ensure their rightful place in history for years to come.

Custom 12' x 18' Cedar 2-Beam Pergola 10' x 12' Vinyl Deluxe 4-Beam Pergola

…I must tell you how thrilled we are with the gazebo - we just wish we had done it years ago!

M.S. – Raleigh, NC

Arrived in a timely fashion, nothing was missing, instructions were easy to follow. I would do business with them again and have recommended them to others.

T.D. - Watsonville, CA

…Our gazebos weathered Hurricane Katrina just fine…

N.W. Mobile, AL

We are very pleased with how the gazebo turned out and I would be happy to be a reference for your company.

S.F. – Warrington, PA

I ordered a 12'X14' oval gazebo and assembled it as a retreat from our bedroom

M.R. – Hedgesville, WV

Outstanding service

R.W. - Collegeville, PA

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