barrelvault

A barrel vault, also known as a tunnel vault, is a semi-cylindrical ceiling or roof structure. It is essentially a series of arches placed side-by-side along a line, forming a continuous tunnel. This architectural element is one of the oldest and most basic forms of vaulting.

Historically, barrel vaults were constructed using masonry, typically stone or brick. The immense weight of the materials distributes the load outwards and downwards to the supporting walls. This requires substantial, thick walls and often buttresses to counteract the outward thrust. Due to the continuous nature of the vault, it creates a strong, unbroken span.

Barrel vaults were commonly used in ancient Roman architecture, particularly in basilicas, baths, and military structures. They allowed for larger, more open interior spaces than were possible with simple post-and-lintel construction. The simplicity of their form made them relatively straightforward to build compared to more complex vaulting systems.

The visual effect of a barrel vault is one of enclosure and a sense of forward movement. Light is often introduced through openings at the ends of the vault or through windows in the supporting walls. While visually impressive, the need for thick walls and the potential for limited light can be drawbacks. This type of vault is less common in modern construction due to the availability of more efficient and lighter materials and structural techniques.