The author outlines a history of ideas about how the facades of European buildings, from ancient Greek temples onwards, originally looked. The idea, originating with Winckelmann and continuing with Ruskin, that buildings were originally free from external paint, was later contradicted both by traces of paint found on the facades themselves and by later finds of statuary. Whether all facades were brightly painted or whether the lime wash sciabatura now being found on Roman architecture (which would have given a creamy white appearance) was more common is a problem which remains to be resolved. It is important that modern restorations be carried out with a respect for the original appearance, remembering that surface decorations had a protective function as well. References.