Catherine wheels are a type of firework that spins around on a horizontal axis, producing a display of sparks. They are also known by a number of other names, including pinwheels, whirligigs, and merry-go-rounds. Other regional variants include Serbian candles, wheel-candles, and girandolas. These different names reflect the diverse cultural and linguistic influences that have shaped the history of pyrotechnics. Despite the variations in terminology, the basic function and form of the Catherine wheel remains the same. It is a mesmerizing and awe-inspiring spectacle that delights audiences around the world.