Tantalisingly evocative of breezy summer days, Cobblestones are the oasis of calm and beauty. However, they are not just merely pretty. They're considered one of the world’s most durable and hard-wearing paving methods.
Even today, many European cities, especially those that have stood the test of time, are still paved with cobblestones. Places like Istanbul, Prague and Bratislava are still heavily cobbled, and their cobbled streets provide thoroughfares for vehicular traffic.
History of Cobblestone
We have heard the phrase, “All roads lead to Rome…it”. It is not merely a phase but is based on historical facts. As early as 238 B.C.E., the Romans used tons and tons of cobblestones to create 50,000 miles of roads linking every part of the Roman Empire—and they all lead to Rome!
Cobblestones have been used for paving since ancient times. Roman-era cobbled streets date back to the 3rd and 4th centuries, and earlier examples have been found in ancient Greece and Mesopotamia.
During the 19th century, cobblestone roads were the norm, and the use of cobblestones had even made it across the oceans to European and former colonies. It is because of the same reason that you can still find cobbled streets in places such as Cape Town (South Africa), Puducherry (India), and Boston.
Originally, rounded stones gathered from riverbeds or glacial deposits were used as cobblestones. As safer, smoother streets were desired, quarried stones with much flatter surface profiles and more regular shapes were substituted.
The most durable stone types are igneous—the basalts, granites, and porphyry, but hard limestones and sandstones are also typical. Properly maintained cobblestone roadways can last centuries. Cobblestones are also strong enough to be used as building stone or veneer, although these are fewer specific applications.
Some fun facts about cobblestone
- The name ‘cobblestone’ finds its history in the old English word “cob”, which referred to a large, round lump. Around the 15th century, the word ‘cobble’ referred to small stones found in stream beds. These stones formed the first cobblestone streets.
- Cobblestones were replaced as the primary means of road-laying in the 19th century, but many cities in Europe, South America and North America still use cobbles. One advantage cobbled streets have is that it’s easy to hear traffic coming, acting as a warning to pedestrians.
Stone Depot is one of Australia’s largest importers and wholesalers of natural stones. We aim to provide premium natural stones at a competitive price for every project space. Our offering comprises a complete range of natural stones such as travertine, limestone, granite, marble, sandstone, bluestone and slatestone.
Our Cobblestone Offerings:
- Raven Black Granite Cobblestone
We call it Raven Black Granite Cobblestone. It is considered the darkest and the most enchanting natural stone that lets you pave dense and stable surfaces. Its profound textures and exfoliated finish make your outdoors a visual treat to savour. Our granite cobblestones have split edges. To make the installation easier, quicker and time-saving, we offer Raven Black Granite Cobblestone comes in a brick bond pattern on a mesh in 20 pieces. They stand the test of time in the face of weather extremities, making the pavers last long.
- Porphyry cobblestone
Porphyry is another prevalent paving stone. Known for its large-grained crystals, Poryphry cobblestone is a blend of feldspar, mica, and other minerals. The textured surface offers a countryside appearance to outdoor space. It comes in a natural split finish and split edges. With high weather resistance and a non-slippery surface, they are ideal for paving sidewalks, pool decks, driveways, parks, and more. The catch is -the thicker the stone, the better the load-bearing capacity. If the stone is properly installed, sealed and maintained, it could easily last over 50 years.
- Summit cobblestone
Summit Cobblestones stand out with beige and golden shades of stones in a combination of soft grey. The lighter streaks create an interesting pattern on driveways, walkways, or sidewalks. They withstand wear and tear without fading or breaking, staying intact for many years.
- Sesame grey cobblestone
Sesame Grey Granite cobblestone is known for its dominating patterns of ash grey with a bluish undertone. It exudes an unrivalled grace in your indoor and outdoor spaces when paired with complementary colours. Extremely resilient and low on maintenance, this natural stone keeps the surface of your patio, driveways, pool deck, and floor safe. They come in a fantastic exfoliated finish.
- Plazzio cobblestone
Plazzio Cobblestones’ brownish colours and natural split finish create the look of an aged stone, making it a unique pick among the rest of the cobblestones. This one stands out with its brilliant colour that transforms boring roads or pavements into eye-catchy ones. Plazzio cobblestone is durable and withstands heavy traffic and weathering. No wonder why this remains in demand all year.
- Ash grey cobblestone
Ash Grey Cobblestone is a stone of natural ash grey colour. Tough and resilient, the slip-resistant stone is available in multiple materials to pave your walkways, streets, or pavements. The cobblestone withstands heavy traffic and weathering, retaining its structure and shape for a long time. It comes in a natural split finish with split edges.
We understand that each natural stone is different, so our products are expertly curated and masterfully crafted. Our team of professionals and stone experts provide sustainable solutions according to the needs of our clients. Schedule a call today!
*Disclaimer: All information and advice given above in the blog are to the best of our knowledge. Please reconfirm at your end before execution.
