Window shutters originated in the Mediterranean region and are widely thought to have come from Ancient Greece. Originally, houses only had a window gap with nothing protecting from the outside elements. This was way before the invention of glass and something was required to fill the window gap. Originally large stones were used and this later led to marble and eventually wooden shutters as we know them today.
Although used much more widely now, shutters are still popular in the Mediterranean countries such as Greece, Italy and Spain. Whereas curtains are traditionally used in Northern Europe, in Southern Europe shutters are more popular. There are a number of reasons for shutters being particularly popular in the Mediterranean.
One reason for the popularity of shutters in the Mediterranean is the look of them. Both interior and exterior shutters are stylish in their own way. Exterior shutters are particularly popular in Mediterranean countries; people care about the look of their homes from the outside and exterior shutters give them a certain elegance and traditional look. Part of the popularity of wooden shutters is that it has become a tradition and a trend. Many have them on their homes and others like the look of them and follow suit.
The main reason why interior wooden shutters are popular is the specific climate in that part of the world, with hot, dry summers but winters that can be cool and wet. The general adjustability is the main practical benefit of shutters and the weather conditions in Southern Europe can make them particularly beneficial there compared to other regions. Louvred shutters have benefits when temperatures are high. They can be adjusted to keep the heat out, with the window open to allow airflow but the louvres closed to keep out the heat of the sun. For those wishing to allow sunlight in but keep their privacy, louvred shutters are again useful. The louvres can be adjusted to let in the optimum amount of sunlight, whether this is all sunlight, no sunlight, or something in between.
In the Mediterranean it can get hot and humid at times in the summer and this includes at night. Wooden shutters are practical when wanting to let in air at night. For those with curtains, even where the window is open they will stop the airflow to some extent. With shutters this isn't necessary as they can be closed but with the louvres remaining slightly open.
As the winters can be chilly compared to summertime, shutters can offer some protection. Due to the quality wood generally used in their manufacture, when closed they can, to an extent, keep the cool air out.
There are many reasons for shutters being popular in the Mediterranean region. The main reason is their practicality, especially during the warm summer months that can be experienced. They are also a tradition in the area though, and something that are sought after by home owners. Their popularity has spread across the globe but they remain most common in the Mediterranean.
Andrew Marshall ©
Wooden Shutters are popular around the world, but in particular in the Mediterranean Region.
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