In architecture , a cupola ( / ˈ k ( j ) uː p ə l ə / ) is a relatively small, usually dome -like structure on top of a building often crowning a larger roof or dome. Cupolas often serve as a roof lantern to admit light and air or as a lookout.
4-552: Old Main is a term often applied to the original building present on college or university campuses in the United States. The building serves today as home to administrative offices, such as the president or provost, but in its early inception may have served multiple functions, including classrooms and residences. Although many university campuses have outgrown the initial capacity of "old mains" and their geography has made them less central to university life than they once were,
8-422: A belfry , belvedere , or roof lantern above a main roof. In other cases they may crown a spire , tower , or turret . Barns often have cupolas for ventilation. Cupolas can also appear as small buildings in their own right. The square, dome-like segment of a North American railroad train caboose that contains the second-level or "angel" seats is also called a cupola. The term cupola can also refer to
12-534: A vault resembling an upside-down cup. The cylindrical drum underneath a larger cupola is called a tholobate . The cupola evolved during the Renaissance from the older oculus . Being weatherproof, the cupola was better suited to the wetter climates of northern Europe. The chhatri , seen in Indian architecture , fits the definition of a cupola when it is used atop a larger structure. Cupolas often serve as
16-525: The building is commonly depicted in university or college marketing material to promote the longevity and tradition of the institution. Many old main buildings are surmounted by large towers, cupolas , or spires , occasionally housing bells or carillons . Some examples of "old mains" (sorted by U.S. state): Cupola The word derives, via Italian , from lower Latin cupula (classical Latin cupella ), from Ancient Greek κύπελλον ( kúpellon ) 'small cup' (Latin cupa ), indicating
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