Classical Architecture Vocabulary Quiz

Classical Architecture Vocabulary

• Arch: A curved structure made of wedge-shaped stones (voussoirs) that spans an opening, often used for structural support.

• Base: The lowest supporting part of a column that stabilizes it.

• Bay: A spatial unit in a building, defined by columns, walls, or windows, often repeated regularly.

• Capital: The uppermost part of a column, which transitions between the column and horizontal elements, providing additional support. Notable example includes the Corinthian capital with acanthus leaves.

• Classical: Refers to the architecture styles originating from ancient Greece and Rome.

• Classicism: Ancient architectural forms and principles derived from Greek and Roman influences.

• Coffer: A decorative panel that is sunken square or polygonal, commonly found in ceilings.

• Colonnade: A series of columns arranged in a row that supports a beam or entablature; seen in structures like The Vatican.

• Column: A cylindrical support featuring a base, shaft, and capital, either monolithic or composed of cylindrical pieces (drums).

• Corinthian: The most ornate of the three classical orders, characterized by capitals adorned with acanthus leaves and scrolls.

• Cornice: A decorative molding at the top of a building that overhangs to protect the structure below.

• Cupola: A small dome, frequently positioned atop a roof or minor tower.

• Dome: A rounded, convex ceiling or roof structure supported by a circular or polygonal base.

• Drum: Refers to a circular wall supporting a dome or a cylindrical block that forms a column.

• Doric: The most robust of the classical orders featuring a plain capital, fluted shaft, and lacking a base.

• Entablature: The upper section of a classical order, composed of three parts and supported by columns.

• Facade: The principal exterior face of a building, often the front.

• Flute: A concave vertical groove running along the shaft of a column.

• Ionic: A slender architectural order distinguished by its volute (scroll-like) capital.

• Neoclassicism: An artistic movement that emerged in late 18th-century Europe, characterized by a revival of classical styles.

• Order: A style of classical column and entablature, of which the Greeks developed three types: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

• Pediment: A triangular gable typically found at the end of a Greek or Roman temple, also used above doors and windows as an ornamental feature.

• Portico: An entranceway or porch supported by columns on one or more sides, a hallmark of classical architecture.

• Revival: The act of reusing architectural styles from previous eras in new designs.

• Rotunda: A round building or hall, generally topped with a dome.

• Shaft: The vertical portion of a column located between the base and capital.

• Vault: An arched construction that forms a ceiling or roof, typically made from masonry.

• Volute: A spiral or scroll-shaped design element, often found in Ionian capitals.

• Asymmetry: A design principle where balance is achieved through uneven distribution of elements around a fulcrum.

• Eclecticism: An architectural approach that combines styles and elements from various sources to create a unique design.