Tetrapylon

A tetrapylon, Greek τετράπυλος ( " viertorig " ), latin quadrifrons ( " vierstirnig "); is a four-part monument, which occurred frequently in Roman architecture. Its base is square.

The buildings were often erected in the center of Roman cities as emphasis on intersections. They consist of four groups of four pillars on which architrave form a soffit. Well-preserved examples can be found mainly in the east of the Roman Empire.

As well as monumental tetrapylon gate buildings are referred to, consisting of four rectangular or angled pillars which are interconnected by transverse ribs.

Possible roof shapes are pyramidal roof, domed or vaulted ceiling.

A tetrapylon was planned as a gatehouse or a sign of victory. It served as a gateway into a sacred area bounded ( Temenos ), it is called propylon.

Well-known examples are:

• Of Galerius in Thessaloniki
• Severans the Triumphal Arch in Leptis Magna
• The Heidentor at Carnuntum
• The Arch of Janus in Rome
• Tetrapylon ( Cáparra )