Tympanum
A tympanum (plural, tympana) is the semi-circular or triangular decorative wall surface over an entrance bounded by a lintel and arch. It often contains sculptures or other ornaments.
Most architectural styles include this element. The tympanum was invented in ancient Egypt in the first half of the 3rd century BC, and later appears in Greek, Christian and Islamic architecture. In Greek and Christian architecture, tympanums usually contained religious scenes. Bands of molding surrounding the tympanum are referred to as the archivolt.
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