Chimineas originated in Mexico thousands of years ago, by the Mexican tribesmen in order to provide heat for their families as well as to cook food. The chiminea was cleverly designed with a vertical chimney so that smoke is blown away from the food whilst having a persistent breeze to keep the fire burning. The shape is usually more bulbous at the base, providing room for large quantities of food. 

They offer a practical, freestanding fireplace, with similarities to a fire pit, except they possess a safely enclosed fire area. They are designed to be a specific shape to ensure rain couldn’t get to the firewood. Originating in Mexico, rain isn’t much of a problem there, so the need to seal them isn’t great. 

These days, chimineas are purchased and tend to be left untreated, yet if rainfall is frequent, this can cause the untreated chiminea clay to crack. If you purchase a chimenea, it is essential that you treat it quickly in order to prevent damage. These days, you can not only choose from a wide range of shapes and sizes, but you can also choose from a variety of materials. Select from a clay chiminea to a cast iron or steel one (steel chimineas). Regardless of the style you choose, you are likely to get some great use from this purposeful object. 

In terms of building a fire, chimineas offer a safe environment in which to do so. They control the fire, and can be left to burn without observation. You don’t have to keep an eye on the fire when it burns in a chiminea, as it is safely controlled and will go out on its own accord. In the UK and other countries around the globe, chimineas have become increasingly popular and provide a great garden accessory. With their unique appearance and their practical uses, they truly are a must. 

Find out more about chimineas here… ceramic chimenea

Where Do Chimineas Derive From? is a post from: WiredWriter