OPISTHODOME Meaning and
Definition
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Opisthodome is a term derived from Greek words opisthen, meaning "at the back," and domos, meaning "house" or "temple." In architectural and archaeological contexts, it refers to a specific area or chamber located at the rear end of a Greek temple, usually positioned behind the naos or cella, which is the main section or sanctuary of the temple.
The opisthodome typically served as a storage space or treasury, housing valuable offerings, votive objects, and sometimes even the temple's financial resources. It was a secluded area accessible only to the priests or temple administrators, and not intended for public access or worship. Due to its proximity to the naos, it was considered an integral part of the overall temple complex.
Opisthodomes varied in size and design according to the specific temple they were associated with. Some were more spacious and had rooms or compartments within them, while others were smaller and served as a simple enclosed chamber. In addition, opisthodomes could be open or closed structures, depending on whether they had walls, columns, or were left entirely open to the elements.
Although opisthodomes were most commonly found in ancient Greek temple architecture, they were not exclusive to this style and occasionally appeared in other ancient cultures as well.
Overall, the opisthodome can be understood as a section of the temple complex designated for purposes other than public worship, providing insight into the practical and administrative aspects of religious practices in ancient Greece.
Common Misspellings for OPISTHODOME
- ipisthodome
- kpisthodome
- lpisthodome
- ppisthodome
- 0pisthodome
- 9pisthodome
- ooisthodome
- olisthodome
- o-isthodome
- o0isthodome
- opusthodome
- opjsthodome
- opksthodome
- oposthodome
- op9sthodome
- op8sthodome
- opiathodome
- opizthodome
- opixthodome
- opidthodome
Etymology of OPISTHODOME
The word "Opisthodome" originates from the combination of two Greek words: "opisthen", meaning "behind", and "doma", meaning "building" or "structure". The term primarily refers to a specific area or chamber located at the rear or back of a temple or building. This term is commonly used in relation to ancient Greek architecture.
Similar spelling words for OPISTHODOME
- Opisthotium,
- opisthodomoi.
