Taj Mahal, Agra, IndiaGianfranco Ferré Research Center, Politecnico di Milano
What is a dome?
A dome is a structural element used in architecture, generally consisting of a half hollow sphere placed on the roof to create shelter. But that's only a fraction of the story. Domes have been used since pre-historic times as basic shelters but also represent the very cutting edge of architecture, employing the most advanced mathematics, technology and building techniques of any epoch.
Sao Paulo Cathedral
São Paulo Cathedral - São Paulo, Brazil
Although there has been a church on the site for 500 years, the current domed cathedral was only begun in 1913. However, it did take more than 50 years to complete. It was built in the Neo-Gothic style, following the design of German architect Maximilian Emil Hehl.
The large central dome sits above the nave and is flanked on four corners by small towers. The dome features its own small tower in the centre to allow light to enter, another complex engineering puzzle for the architect and construction team to solve.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore 8 (2018-11-04/2018-11-04) by Ali Nuredini
Domes around the world
Perhaps one of the most unique features of domed architecture is that they have been used in almost all architectural periods in virtually every corner of the world.
There seems to be something about both the simple functionality yet challenging application of a domed roof that resonates with us on some level.
Three more famous domes from around the world. These domes exemplify how the basic structure can be used and adapted to fit multiple styles of architecture.
Catedral Metropolitana
Catedral Metropolitana - Mexico City, Mexico
This colossal and multi-domed cathedral was constructed on top of a former Aztec sacred site near the Templo Mayor. It is located on the northern side of the Plaza de la Constitución, known as the Zócalo, Mexico City. It was built in sections in just under 250 years from 1573 to 1813. This probably explains the mishmash of design styles.
The large central dome is a reflection of the Baroque and Gothic examples found in Spain and across Europe in the preceding centuries. In this case, the design was exported to the new world exemplifying the dome's universal appeal.
Fantasy View with the Pantheon and other Monuments of Ancient Rome (1737) by Giovanni Pauolo PaniniThe Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Practical advantages
Of course, it's not just the challenge that explains the universal use of this structural element. There are other reasons for the success of the dome as an architectural motif. Domed structures are remarkably energy efficient, being easy to both heat and cool.
They are also strong and durable, as testified by the hundreds of ancient domed buildings still in existence around the world. Not to mention being weather proof and easy to maintain.
Three very different styles of domes. As you can see, the practical advantages and unique dome shape lends itself to construction with a huge range of building materials and creates a dramatic and eye-catching effect.
St Paul's Cathedral
St Paul's Cathedral - London, England
Perhaps one of the most iconic domed buildings in the world, St Paul's Cathedral has towered over London since the 17th century, when it was built in the English Baroque style by Sir Christopher Wren.
Standing 111m high, it was the tallest building in the city until 1963, and remains one of the tallest domes in the world. However, the dome construction is not all about aesthetics and has multiple other functions, not least the acoustic benefits of the famed Whispering Gallery.
View over Moscow Kremlin by Sergey VinogradovFabergé Museum
Want to know more?
If domes have captured your imagination and you want to discover more, you can find out about different architectural styles here.
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