A viewpoint is an architectural element in the form of an exterior gallery "Gallery (room)") or balcony closed in its entire height that protrudes from the wall of the building, providing it with a space with great views to the outside. The gazebo also serves to conserve heat and protect the building from winds and humidity.

Bay windows are not common in ancient or medieval architecture, although the balcony form is said to originate in Mesopotamia and Greece, and that balconies and enclosed galleries were used in the architecture of Ancient Rome and in Gothic architecture from the 17th century onwards. Its use is clearer from the end of the Renaissance and especially in the Baroque. However, in fact, it was not until the century that glazed viewpoints with large glasses and uniform structures emerged.

Different types of bay windows are known by the names bay windows, bay window, oriel and bow window.

In tourism and recreation the term mirador "Mirador (tourism)") is also given to places or structures that have a wide view of their surroundings, which are generally located in high places; for example, the top of hills or cliffs, on the shore of the sea or a river.

Viewpoints in Spain

In Spain, viewpoints are especially characteristic of the northern part of the country, where the cold climate and fewer hours of sunshine compared to other areas make this architectural element a very popular element. They constitute a hallmark of some cities such as La Coruña, Santander "Santander (Spain)"), Burgos and Vitoria. In La Coruña and Santander these are constructions that protect houses from humid winds. In Vitoria, they can be seen throughout the expansion of the city, a work from the 19th century.[1]​.

The Technical Building Code approved in Spain in 2007 has caused the resurgence of the gazebo which it calls attached greenhouse and recommends it as an energy system mechanism by saving on heating costs.[2]​.