Define Cupola
A cupola is a traditionally small, usually round structure built on top of a larger dome or roof. In some cases, a cupola makes up the entire rooftop of a tower or spire. Cupolas can also resemble little square houses instead of the more frequently used circular dome. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The first known use of cupolas was in 8th century Islamic architecture, where the structures were used on top of minarets, or towers, attached to mosques. From there, the cupola gradually spread from the Middle East to Europe and Russia, particularly appearing during the 17th and 18th centuries. The use of cupolas eventually spread to America through England and became an important part of post-revolutionary Federalist architecture.
Purpose
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Aside from being an aesthetically pleasing architectural design, cupolas have served many practical purposes throughout their history. Cupolas were often used as lookouts on the top of a main structure, and they provide a practical entrance for light and air into the space below.
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Types
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A cupola might be called by a different name depending on its use. A widow's walk, or Belvedere, is a cupola that can be reached through a stairway inside the main building. If a cupola has windows that illuminate a building's interior, it is known as a lantern. A cupola containing bells is called a belfry; these are often used in churches and cathedrals. A small, low-lying cupola that doesn't extend very far above the roofline is called a monitor.
Pronunciation and Word Origin
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Cupola is pronounced kyou' puh luh. The word originates from the Latin "cupula," meaning "small cup."
Fun Fact
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The cupola features prominently in American architecture, especially in the nation's capitol city. Cupolas can be seen on the U.S. Capitol building and on top of the Jefferson Memorial.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Will Palmer
