The History of the Cupola

The cupola is an age-old architectural tool, which sits at the top of a dome or roof, often used to let in light and provide ventilation. The word “cupola” comes from the Italian word for “little cup,” because of its resemblance to an upside down cup.

Cupolas are common in lavish Roman architecture, as well as the Greek revival style. The domed roof of St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican features an elegant cupola, which styling has become an American democratic symbol, adorning many of our state capital buildings and other civic structures. Stunning copulas are also found on such important religious and civic buildings as the Sacre-Coeur and the Pantheon in Paris, and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice,

Another common use for a cupola is as a lookout. Because of its advantageous height and positioning, an inhabitable cupola is often referred to as a belvedere, which means “fair view” in Italian. The term “widow’s walk” may also describe such a structure. This name is derived from the practice of widowed mariners’ wives who, upon learning of their husbands’ tragic passing, would retire to their cupola to gaze into the sea in hope of their return.

Today the most common use of a cupola in residential architecture is as a ventilation or decorative accessory on the top of a home or barn. These cupolas, typically wooden with metal or wooden louvers, often exhibit a weather vane at the top of their structure. Because of their position at the apex of a roof, they can be used to release hot or stagnant air, and save on cooling costs

Cupolas have always been an integral element in the construction of a barn, helping to circulate the air in a horse barn, or to dry the hay that is stored within. Today, copulas are a great way to add class, sophistication, or a little country charm to the roof of your home, depending on the style you choose.