What does the term epistyle (or architrave) refer to?

The term epistyle, also known as the architrave, specifically refers to the bottom portion of an entablature that sits directly on top of the columns. In classical architecture, the entablature is comprised of three main sections: the architrave, the frieze, and the cornice. The architrave serves as the structural support for the elements above it and is often plain or decorated to complement the overall design of the building.

Understanding this context is crucial because the epistyle functions as a foundational element that connects the columns to the upper parts of the structure, reinforcing stability and aesthetic coherence. This distinction of its role is vital in analyzing classical architectural designs, as it helps to appreciate the relationship between the columns and the upper sections of the temple or structure.