|
 A TEMPLE AS AN IMAGE OF SPACE
The majority of the preserved
monuments of ancient Russian architecture are temples.
A temple is crowned with
domes (3) and crosses (4). A dome is an image of the
sky. The number of domes could be symbolic. Two domes symbolised
solemn and human essences in Jesus Christ, three – symbolised God the
Father, His Son and the Holy Spirit, five domes are understood as Christ
and four evangelists, thirteen – as Christ and twelve apostles. Every dome
rests on a drum (5).
Vaults and domes inside the
cathedral are supported by arches resting on powerful pillars and columns.
The larger the cathedral the more pillars and columns there are in it.
The upper parts of outside walls
are completed with semi-circular zacomari-gables(2). They
copy the outline of inside walls.
The eastern part of the temple
has some semi-cylindrical protrusions – apses (6). Inside
they contain the alter. The number of apses (one, three, five) depends on
the size of the temple.
A beautifully decorated entrance
is called a portal (7). Very often the facades of the temple
are decorated with a belt of arcature (1).
The list of words for you to
remember:
1 – a belt of
arcature
2 – a gable ( a
zakomara-gable)
3 – a dome
4 – a cross
5 – a drum
6 – an apse
7 – a portal
Exercises:
|
