Dromos is a term used in architecture and ancient Greek temple complexes to describe a long, sloping or winding passageway that leads to a building or enclosed space. This passageway is often constructed from stone blocks and is designed to create a sense of anticipation and awe in visitors as they approach the building. In ancient Greek temple complexes, the dromos was an important architectural feature that was used to frame the temple and draw attention to its presence. The dromos was often lined with statues or other decorative elements, and it was designed to create a sense of grandeur and importance. Visitors would walk up the dromos, passing by these decorative elements, and arrive at the temple feeling awed and inspired. In modern architecture, the dromos is still used as a way to create a sense of anticipation and drama in visitors. The gradual incline of the passageway allows visitors to ease themselves into the building, rather than having a sudden, abrupt transition. This creates a sense of calm and relaxation, which can be especially important in spaces like museums or art galleries where visitors need to be able to focus and concentrate. Overall, the dromos is an important architectural feature that has been used for centuries to create a sense of awe and anticipation in visitors. Whether in ancient Greek temple complexes or modern buildings, the dromos continues to be an important element of architectural design.
architecture, ancient Greek temple complexes, passageway, statues, modern buildings
CITATION : "Daniel White. 'Dromos.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=254300 (Accessed on August 05, 2025)"
Dromos, within the context of architecture, is a term that is used to describe a long, winding path or entranceway that leads to a structure or building. It is often characterized by a continuous, gradual incline that guides visitors up to the entrance of the building. This type of entranceway is often used to frame the structure and draw attention to its presence and beauty. The gradual incline also serves a practical purpose by allowing visitors to ease themselves into the building, rather than having a sudden, abrupt transition. It is also used to create a sense of anticipation, as visitors make their way up the gradual incline, wondering what they will find at the end of the path.
Pathway, Route, Procession, Passage, Path.
Masonry is an ancient building technique involving the construction of structures using individual units composed of natural stone, brick, or concrete blocks, which are bound together with mortar. Dromos is a term used to describe a specific type of masonry element; it is a long, sloping, or curved passageway, typically constructed from stone blocks, which is often found as part of an Ancient Greek temple complex. Dromos typically consists of an inclined plane that is lined with stone blocks, and is often used to provide access to an enclosed space, such as an altar or temple. The term can also refer to an open-air corridor or passageway, which may be lined with columns, in some cases.
Masonry, Dromos, Ancient Greek, Temple, Passageway, Corridor.
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