A pergola is a type of gazebo that forms a walkway, its pillars and cross beams offering a structure on which vines or bougainvillea are traditionally grown. It thus offers shade and protection as an extension of an existing building or as a sheltered pathway between pavilions. The word originates from the Latin meaning projected eave.
Pergolas are permanent features usually constructed of stone or wood unlike the temporary green tunnels built of willow or hazel in the early Renaissance period. Branches were knotted together to form arches and then longer pieces were woven through to support the growth of climbing plants. The walkways then allowed pleasant strolls as they provided both shade from the sun and protection from the rain.
During the 18th and 19th centuries when cottage gardens and more natural landscape architecure was in vogue, the obviously man-made character of pergolas made it a less popular garden ornnament.
Today pergolas are very popular mainly because of their use in gardening programmes on television. Modern pergolas tend to be constructed of wood, a cheaper option, and thus makes this type of garden gazebo available to a wider market. They can be incorporated into a large garden as a shaded walkway or as an alternative to a solid fence in a garden where space is limited, training climbers and creating a more open perspective.
Large pergolas can provide a space of relaxation and shade whilst smaller ones can add structure and interest to a particular part of the garden.
Picture courtesy of iagoarchangel
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