epikeistes

Epikeistes is a term derived from ancient Greek, meaning "above the house" or "over the house." It refers to a type of ancient Greek house, typically a large, two-story residence, often found in the classical period. These structures were designed to provide ample living space and were often built for wealthy individuals or families. The term is also used to describe the upper floor of such a house, which was often used for sleeping or additional living areas.

The epikeistes was characterized by its open interior, with a central courtyard surrounded by rooms. This layout allowed for natural light and ventilation, which were important considerations in ancient Greek architecture. The upper floor, or epikeistes, was accessed via an external staircase and often featured a roof terrace, providing a view of the surrounding landscape.

The term epikeistes is also used more broadly to refer to any elevated structure or platform, such as a stage or a throne, which is positioned above the main level. In this context, it can be seen as a metaphor for a position of power or authority.