Most gargoyles are made of stone. They are carved and sculpted, then placed on buildings—most commonly religious buildings. Gargoyles are mythically believed to have the ability to ward off evil spirits to protect a building and its occupants. However, the original architectural use of gargoyles was as waterspouts, extending from gutters, to channel rainwater and melting snow runoff. Gargoyles can be carved to resemble either humans or animals, or a combination of both. Many gargoyles are magical, under the guardianship of Mother Nature, and do indeed serve to protect.