Gargoyles are decorative and functional features found on many historical buildings, particularly Gothic and Romanesque architecture. They are often carved or molded from stone and take on the form of grotesque or mythical creatures. The primary function of gargoyles in architecture is to divert water away from the roofs and walls of buildings, and to protect them from damage caused by rainwater. Gargoyles are also used as decorative elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the building and to convey symbolic meaning through their sometimes-imposing appearance. Gargoyles are often used to represent the fears of the people who constructed the buildings, often used in church buildings to represent evil spirits and ward off evil.
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