Amphiprostylar

/ˌæmfɪprɒˈstaɪlər/ adjective

Definition

Describing a building, especially a temple, that has columns at both the front and back but not along the sides.

Etymology

From Greek 'amphi' (both) + 'pro' (before) + 'stylos' (column), a term used in architecture since the Renaissance to describe Greek temple designs.

Kelly Says

The Parthenon in Athens isn't actually amphiprostylar—it has more columns than that—but many smaller Greek temples used this elegant four-column design front and back to appear balanced and complete.

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