The word "column" is of French origin and literally translates as "pillar". It is a vertical support, a rod architectural element having a circular cross section. In turn, a colonnade is one row of columns or several rows of columns. Read more about this building in the article.
History reference
There are no historical documents indicating exactly where and when the colonnades first began to be built. Even in the Ancient World, columns were used to strengthen dwellings. But it is known for sure that in the architecture of Ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, an element such as a colonnade was used. This is confirmed by archaeological excavations.
The ancient Egyptian temple of the Sphinx in Giza has a single doorway that leads into the courtyard, surrounded on all sides by a colonnade.
The ancient Greeks in architectural forms expressed their desire for beauty. In their temples, columns were often used, with a dense wall surrounding the building around the perimeter.
The Roman genius proved himself in the organization of space. For them, a colonnade is a peculiar way of zoning during the construction of courtyards in trade, judicial and government buildings of forums.
Beautiful colonnades in world architecture
Where is the colonnade found in world architecture? This is primarily the Roman square of St. Peter, built in the 17th century according to the project of the famous architect Bernini. On both sides it is surrounded by colonnades, which consist of 284 Doric columns of 20 meters high and a half meter wide. The top of the colonnade is crowned with 140 statues.
Kazan Cathedral in St. Petersburg and its colonnade are no less famous. This magnificent architectural structure was built by the architect A.N. Voronikhin.
The Colonnade of Apollo in the Pavlovsk Palace is noteworthy . The object of cultural heritage is the Vorontsovskaya colonnade in Odessa, built in the style of the Tuscan warrant.
Very often, such an element is used in park architecture.
Natural colonnades in nature
Nature creates amazingly beautiful reliefs. Amazingly beautiful natural basalt colonnades scattered throughout the earth are amazing. Their harmony and accuracy can argue with the human genius:
- Garni Gorge in Armenia;
- Japanese Takachiho-kyo Gorge;
- "Devil's Tower" in the US state of Wyoming;
- "Tread of the Devil" in California;
- Akun Cave in Alaska;
- Sugar Mountain in the Caribbean;
- New Zealand Cargill Mount;
- Mount Jackson Creek in the Australian state of Victoria.
Now you know exactly what a colonnade is.