What is the term for the great awning drawn over Roman theatres and amphitheatres to protect spectators from the sun?

What is the term for the great awning drawn over Roman theatres and amphitheatres to protect spectators from the sun?

• A. Velarium
• B. Narthex
• C. Baldachino
• D. Voussoirs

Answer: (A)

The term for the great awning over Roman theatres and amphitheatres is velarium. It describes a large, sail-like canvas canopy stretched over a framework of poles and ropes to shield spectators from the sun, often operated by sailors. The name comes from vela, meaning sails, highlighting its fabric, weatherproof function. This kind of shading is specific to outdoor venues; other terms refer to different architectural features: a narthex is a church entrance vestibule, a baldachino is a canopy over an altar, and voussoirs are wedge-shaped stones forming an arch.

The term for the great awning over Roman theatres and amphitheatres is velarium. It describes a large, sail-like canvas canopy stretched over a framework of poles and ropes to shield spectators from the sun, often operated by sailors. The name comes from vela, meaning sails, highlighting its fabric, weatherproof function. This kind of shading is specific to outdoor venues; other terms refer to different architectural features: a narthex is a church entrance vestibule, a baldachino is a canopy over an altar, and voussoirs are wedge-shaped stones forming an arch.