koepel

Koepel is the Dutch term for a dome, a rounded roof or ceiling that defines the central space of a building. Domes are typically hemispherical or segmental and can be constructed in masonry, concrete, metal, or glass systems. They are usually carried by a supporting drum or by transitions such as pendentives or squinches, which transfer weight from a circular or polygonal plan to the supporting walls or piers.

Historically, domes have served both architectural and symbolic purposes in religious and civic buildings. Early large domes appeared in Roman architecture, notably the Pantheon, while the Renaissance produced iconic examples like Brunelleschi’s dome for the Florence Cathedral. The Hagia Sophia and St. Peter’s Basilica further shaped dome construction and influenced Western architecture for centuries.

Modern techniques allow a range of dome types, including thin-shell masonry, reinforced concrete, and steel-framed structures. The geodesic dome, popularized in the 20th century, demonstrates a lightweight, efficient spherical form constructed from a network of triangles.

Domes are common in mosques, churches, capitol buildings, observatories, and other public spaces, valued for their visual impact, acoustics, and structural efficiency. They may include features such as a lantern, oculus, or skylight at the apex and can be clad or finished with tiles, lead, copper, or glass.

Overall, the koepel remains a versatile architectural element used across cultures and periods to crown spaces with both functional and symbolic significance.