Cupola

:For other uses, see cupola (disambiguation)

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In architecture, a cupola consists of a dome-shaped ornamental structure located on top of a larger roof or dome, often used as a lookout or to admit light and remove stale air. The word comes from the Italian, and expresses the idea of a "small tub".

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In some cases, the entire main roof of a tower or spire can form a single cupola. More frequently, however, the cupola comprises a smaller structure which sits on top of the main roof. If one can reach the cupola by climbing a stairway inside the building, one can refer to this type of accessible cupola as a belvedere or as a widow's walk. Some cupolas, called lanterns, have small windows which illuminate the areas below.

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Architecture: Architecture (in Greek αρχή = first and τέχνη = craftsmanship) is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. A wider definition would include within its scope the design of the total built environment, from the macrolevel of town planning,...

Dome: A dome is a common structural element of architecture that resembles the hollow upper half of a sphere. Domes do not have to be perfectly spherical in cross-section, however; it is sufficient that they simply be curved surfaces....

Roof: A roof is the top covering of a building that prevents the ingress of weather into the building interior. Roofing comes in sloped or 'flat' form; however, roofs should never be truly flat. Flat roofs are often covered with tar and gravel and provided with drains to run off rain and snow. Other mater...

Cupola related Images and Photos (experimental)

View of the Cupola circa 1773-7