What is the lowest section of the entablature called?

The lowest section of the entablature is referred to as the architrave. In classical architecture, the entablature is comprised of three main horizontal sections: the architrave, frieze, and cornice. The architrave directly sits on top of the columns and serves as a support for the sections above it, effectively acting as a beam that carries the weight from the structure above.

This section is typically simpler in design compared to the frieze and cornice, which often feature more decorative elements. Understanding the function of the architrave is crucial in the study of classical architectural styles, as it provides foundational support while also serving as an entry point for decorative motifs and inscriptions that might appear in the frieze or cornice.

Other terms, while related to the parts of an entablature, refer to different sections. The frieze is the middle section that can include decorative reliefs or panels, and the cornice is the uppermost section that often projects outward, creating a shadow line and helping to protect the wall from rain. The tympanum, in contrast, is typically associated with the space above a doorway or entrance, often framed by an arch, and is distinct from the entabl