Bible Encyclopedias
Hemicycle

1911 Encyclopedia Britannica

(Gr. .tt - , half, and Ki)KXos, circle), a semicircular recess of considerable size which formed one of the most conspicuous features in the Roman Thermae, where it was always covered with a hemispherical vault. A small example exists in Pompeii, in the street of tombs, with a seat round inside, where those who came to pay their respects to the departed could rest. An immense hemicycle was designed by Bramante for the Vatican, where it constitutes a fine architectural effect at the end of the great court.

Bibliography Information
Chisholm, Hugh, General Editor. Entry for 'Hemicycle'. 1911 Encyclopedia Britanica. https://www.studylight.org/​encyclopedias/​eng/​bri/​h/hemicycle.html. 1910.