Illustrated Architecture Dictionary
Illustrated Architecture Dictionary
Examples from Buffalo architecture:Cupola
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A dome, usually small, topping a roof or turret.
A small dome, especially a small dome on a drum on top of a larger dome, adorning a roof or ceiling.
Often have windows (sometimes stained glass windows) or vents on the sides.
Etymology: Latin: "cupola" = small cup. A cupola is a spherical roof, placed like an inverted cup.
Cupolas often serve as a belfry, belvedere, or roof lantern above a main roof. In other cases they may crown a spire, tower, or turret. Barns often have cupolas for ventilation.
Crossing: The space at the interior intersection of the nave, chancel, and transept of a church; often surmounted by a crossing tower or dome/cupola.
Cupola VS Belvedere: Cupola is a dome-shaped ornamental structure located on top of a larger roof or dome, while belvedere is a turret or other raised structure offering a pleasant view of the surrounding area.
Drum: Round wall or structure that supports a dome
Found in classical Greek and Roman architecture and derivatives, including Beaux Arts Classicism, Classical Revival, Federal, Georgian Revival, Greek Revival, Neoclassicism, Renaissance Revival, Second Empire
See also: Just What is a Cupola Anyway? (online April 2025)
Other examples:
- Left illustration above: St. Stanislaus RC Church
- Right illustration above: Corpus Christi RC Church
- Buffalo Lighthouse
- Grover Cleveland High School
- Our Lady of Victory Basilica
- Saint Casimer RC Church
