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Superstructure of mouldings and bands which lie horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals. Derived from the Italian intavolatura, formed from in (“in”) and tavola (“table”).
Form of monasticism which involves living in seclusion from society, whether in isolated cells or in a natural cave or special construction in a desert or forest. Derived from the Greek eremos, meani...
Block of bedchambers or cells in a monastery. Derived from the Old French word dortour, meaning dormitory.
Stone chamber or vault beneath the floor of a church. Acts as a chapel or burial vault, often containing sarcophagi, coffins or relics. Derived from the Greek krypte, meaning “concealed” or “private....
Crown of a column, pillar or pilaster, especially in classical architecture. Derived from the Latin caput, meaning “head.”
Ornamental oval tablet with an ornate scroll frame, usually bearing a coat of arms, date or inscription. Derived from the Italian cartoccio, meaning “paper cornet.”
Sunken panel in the shape of a square, rectangle or octagon, mostly found on a flat ceiling or on the interior surface of a dome. Employed as a form of decoration and to lighten the weight of the str...
Monastic tradition that stresses community life. The monks live, eat and pray together, and there is no private property. Derived from the Greek words koinos (“common”) and bios (“life”).
The main church in an Orthodox monastery, where the major feast days in the liturgical calendar are celebrated. Often has a smaller church in the basement, which can be more easily heated in winter.
Decorative moulding or band following the curve on the underside of an arch. Derived from the Italian archivolto, formed from arco (“arch”) and volta (“vault”).