- megaron
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a building or semi-independent unit of a building, generally used as a living apartment and typically having a square or broadly rectangular principal chamber with a porch, often of columns in antis, and sometimes an antichamber or other small compartments.[1875-80; < Gk mégaron (in Homer) the principal living quarters of a palace]
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In ancient Greece and the Middle East, an architectural form consisting of a porch, vestibule, and large hall with a central hearth.The megaron was found in all Mycenaean palaces and also in houses. It probably originated in the Middle East, later attaining the uniquely Aegean aspect of the open porch supported by columns.* * *
in ancient Greece and the Middle East, architectural form consisting of an open porch, a vestibule, and a large hall with a central hearth and a throne. The megaron was found in all Mycenaean palaces and was also built as part of houses. It seemingly originated in the Middle East, attaining a peculiarly Aegean aspect because of its open porch, which was usually supported by columns. Early Greek architecture used the megaron, and it also became an important element in the Classical temple. A typical megaron plan is that of the palace of Nestor at Pylos, where the large main unit apparently served as royal living quarters. It faced onto the usual courtyard, which was entered through a decorative gateway with fluted columns on either side.* * *
Universalium. 2010.
