What is a Pergola?

You might have seen pergolas in backyards before, or maybe in an ad. Pergolas have grown increasingly popular over the past few years. Some people may wonder what they’re for and how to use them. Are you one of those people? Keep reading — we’ll explain everything you need to know about pergolas.
The Origin of the Pergola
The term “pergola” dates back to ancient Egypt, where the first pergolas were said to belong to high-ranking officials in Thebes. Originally, pergolas were used to create shaded walkways and provide relief from the scorching Egyptian sun. They were often made from wood and decorated with ivy and wisteria.

Rose Pergola, Kew Gardens (London)
Types of Pergolas
Historically, pergolas were crafted from wood. While beautiful, wood requires maintenance and can suffer from rot, shrinkage, or swelling over time.
Modern pergolas are typically made from aluminum, which is rust-resistant, highly durable, and virtually maintenance-free. While other metals could be used, aluminum ensures a long-lasting pergola for your backyard or patio.
Is the Pergola here to Stay?
You might wonder if pergolas are just a passing trend — we’d argue they’re here to stay. Pergolas have become especially popular in Scandinavian countries and are now common across the globe. You’ll find them on terraces, in backyards, and even in botanical gardens. The benefits are clear, and there really aren’t many drawbacks.
Advantages of having a PERGOLUX Pergola
1. The Rooftops
PERGOLUX pergolas are designed to provide shelter, shade, and comfort no matter the weather. The roof can withstand up to 60 kg of snow per square meter and features adjustable slatted louvres. Currently, we offer a manual option , with a motorized option coming soon.

The manual rooftop is quick and easy to use. Unlike traditional pergolas, our adjustable louvres let you control how much sunlight or shade you want, even on the sunniest days.

2. Protection from the wind

Many homeowners add screens to their pergolas. PERGOLUX offers two types: standard screens, which provide shade, and zip screens, which shield you from the wind. The zip-screen’s textile net slides securely along the pergola columns, much like a zipper, for reliable wind protection.

3. All-in-one benefits
A PERGOLUX pergola offers year-round functionality, unlike standard pergolas designed only for shade. It’s built to be robust, featuring:
- Elegant drainage systems for shelter in rain and snow
- Adjustable louvres for sunlight control
- Customizable length and width
- Optional screens for extra protection
Whether you want a shaded reading nook or a dedicated backyard grilling area for family and friends, PERGOLUX pergolas make it possible.
So, what is a pergola again?
A pergola is a stylish outdoor structure, traditionally used as a walkway or sitting area. Our pergolas are sturdy, flexible, and elegantly designed, with manual or motorized roofs and drainage features. Designed for Norway’s rainiest city (Bergen, with 2,490 mm of rainfall per year), our pergolas provide reliable shelter all year long.
Enjoy quiet personal time reading your favorite book, or host friends and family for a backyard barbecue. Either way, PERGOLUX delivers a luxurious, flexible backyard feature that meets your needs.
We make the dream possible.