How A Cupola Works
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Definition
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A cupola, according to the Random House College Dictionary, is a light structure on a dome or a roof that serves as a belfry, belvedere or lantern. Using this definition, the purpose and function of a cupola can be quite varied.
If its purpose is to act as a belfry, then bells will be hung in the cupola and the bell ringer will have to either climb to the structure or pull on a rope that leads down from the cupola. However, if a cupola is being used for another purpose, such as to allow in more light or for observation, then its construction will be different.
Belvedere
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A cupola constructed to provide a view is often called a belvedere. A belvedere traditionally has access from inside a building via a ladder or a simple stairway, and a walkway all around its outside with a railing. Shutters and doors are added to keep the elements out of a belvedere when it isn't in use.
A belvedere is often referred to as a "widow's walk." The legend is, the wives of sailors and seafarers would stand or pace on the belvedere while watching the horizon for the return of their husbands ... and in some accounts those who saw they were widowed would leap from the belvedere in their grief.
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Lantern
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When a cupola is used as a lantern, or a light source, it's often left open (though these openings on the sides may be filled with windows to keep out the elements and animals). The purpose of a lantern is to shine light down into the domed structure beneath, possibly installing mirrors in the lantern so that the light is reflected downwards.
Lanterns may not have interior access, and if any sort of maintenance is necessary, they may need to be approached from the outer rooftop or by the use of a very tall ladder inside the building.
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