Umbrellas are almost as familiar part of everyday life as rain here in Wales, keeping heads dry and blowing inside out in high winds. Their history goes back thousands of years.

The Origins of the Umbrella

The earliest umbrellas appeared thousands of years ago in ancient civilisations such as Egypt, China, Greece, and Assyria. They were originally designed to provide shade from the sun rather than protection from rain. Often made from leaves, feathers, or other lightweight materials, umbrellas were symbols of wealth and power.

Discover Interesting Umbrellas at World of Water

At World of Water, we have our very own collection of interesting umbrellas, each with its own unique character and charm. From unusual designs to fascinating examples of umbrella craftsmanship, our collection offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate this everyday object from a different perspective. Whether you are interested in their history, design, or simply their quirky appeal, our umbrellas are sure to spark curiosity and conversation!

Umbrellas in Europe

Umbrellas became popular in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. At first, they were mainly used by women, while men often considered them unfashionable. However, one Englishman named Jonas Hanway helped change this attitude in the 18th century by regularly carrying an umbrella in London.

The Modern Umbrella

Over time, umbrellas became lighter, stronger, and easier to carry. The introduction of metal frames and improved waterproof fabrics made them more practical for everyday use. Today, umbrellas come in countless colours, styles, and sizes, from compact folding designs to large garden umbrellas.