Tympanum
In classical architecture, the tympanum is the triangular or segmental area enclosed by a pediment on the exterior of a building. The area of a triangular pediment is defined by the horizontal cornice along the bottom and the raking cornice that slopes along the sides. The area of a segmental pediment is defined by the segmental cornices along the sides. It is usual for the tympanum to be decorated with religious imagery or intricate bas-relief sculpture.
Tympana (plural) developed in Roman architecture as the semi-circular shape between the lintel of a doorway and the arch constructed above.
In European Gothic architecture, tympana were included over church portals and had a more vertical shape, meeting at a point at the top.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Top 50 firms awarded 52bn of projects in the last year
New engineering data shows.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
UK Construction Week, London is here !
Debuting major international pavilions and much more.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Plumbing and heating for successful retrofit and renovation
Low temperature underfloor systems and heat pumps.
Cost-of-living crisis and home improvement plans
Starting on the right footing and top tips for projects.
Delays on construction projects
Types, mitigation and the acceleration of works.
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.