Vault

Arched ceiling or roof structure.

Overview

Vaults, constructed with stone or concrete, create spacious, arched ceilings in historic architecture.

Core Characteristics

• Arched and structural.
• Spacious interiors.
• Historical significance.

Notable Examples

• Hagia Sophia (Turkey, 537, ribbed vaults).
• Notre Dame (France, 1345, Gothic vaults).

Architectural Connections

• Gothic: Structural focus.
• Religious: Cathedrals.
• Gothic Architecture: Core movement.

Influence and Legacy

Led by Anthemius of Tralles, it defines monumental interiors.

Related Concepts & Techniques

Vaulting (technique), Structuralism (theory), Ceiling (element), Byzantine Architecture (movement)