Glossary
P
Pagan Altar
An altar often where sacrifices to the Gods took place, but also monumental. Built in various shapes and materials.
Pediment
The triangular structure in a classic temple situated between the entablature and the roof overhang, often decorated with statues and reliefs. It also appears above doors, windows, niches and aediculae.
Peplos
A tubular piece of cloth, worn by Greek women folded in such a way that part fell from the waist to the ankles whilst the top of it fell in folds from the shoulders to the waist, held by a buckle above the right arm.
Pilaster
An architectural structure supported by a quadratic, polygonal or composite base, used to support architraves*, arches* and vaults.
Plan
The architectural design, in horizontal section, of a building or complex or part of one. Also called icnography.
Planimetry
A type of map or diagram showing the geometry and measurements of the horizontal view of one of more buildings or of an urban complex.
Portal
A large open, usually exterior and ground level gallery, it may provide shelter, but may be purely decorative.
Protome
The head or torso of a human, animal or monster used as a decorative element on pediments*, cornices* and antefixes*.