acroteria Definition
architectural ornaments placed at the apex and the base of a pediment.
Using acroteria: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "acroteria" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The acroteria on the temple were carved in the shape of eagles.
Example
The acroteria were removed during the restoration of the building.
Example
The acroteria were made of marble and stood out against the blue sky.
Phrases with acroteria
acroterium of the Erechtheion
a famous example of acroteria, featuring six caryatids (female figures) on the south porch of the Erechtheion temple on the Acropolis in Athens
Example
The acroterium of the Erechtheion is one of the most recognizable examples of ancient Greek architecture.
another famous example of acroteria, featuring winged horses on the corners of the pediment of the Parthenon temple on the Acropolis in Athens
Example
The acroterium of the Parthenon was destroyed during the Venetian bombardment of Athens in 1687.
a set of acroteria featuring Nike (the goddess of victory) in a chariot, located on the Temple of Zeus in Olympia
Example
The acroterium of the Temple of Zeus is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek sculpture.
Origins of acroteria
from Greek 'akroterion', meaning 'summit'
Summary: acroteria in Brief
'Acroteria' [uh-kroh-teer-ee-uh] are architectural ornaments placed at the apex and the base of a pediment. They are often carved in the shape of animals or human figures, as seen in famous examples like the acroterium of the Erechtheion and the Parthenon in Athens. 'Acroteria' are an important part of ancient Greek architecture and continue to be used in modern buildings today.
