The word curtain comes from the Middle English curteyne, which derives from the Old French cortine, and ultimately from the Greek word aulē, meaning “court.”

The earliest curtains were animal hides, used to keep out weather, pests, and cold.

Curtains were once used to separate rooms, much like doors.

Curtains usually come in light-filtering, room-darkening, and blackout versions, allowing you to choose how much light you want.

Ancient Egyptians made textile curtains once weaving was widespread.

Opera house curtains can weigh over 200 kg.

Fire curtains made of asbestos were common until the discovery that asbestos was highly dangerous to health.

Lewis and Clark traded curtain rings with Native Americans because they were surprisingly efficient barter items.

Some very thick curtains have been known to block or restrict radio signals and Wi-Fi coverage.