Which is a megalithic structure consisting of several large stones set on end with a large covering slab?

Prepare for your History of Architecture Test with engaging quizzes. Study with key questions, each detailed with hints and explanations, to ensure exam success. Get ready for your architectural journey!

Multiple Choice

Which is a megalithic structure consisting of several large stones set on end with a large covering slab?

Explanation:
The described structure is a dolmen, a type of megalithic tomb. It consists of several large stones standing upright to form a chamber, capped by a single large horizontal slab that spans the uprights, giving a table-like appearance. This combination of multiple vertical stones with a large covering capstone is the hallmark of a dolmen. A single upright stone, called a menhir, does not form a chamber or have a capstone, so it doesn’t fit the description. The other options refer to different architectural concepts altogether: a megāron is a large rectangular hall from earlier Mediterranean cultures, and a pylon is a monumental gateway in Egyptian temple architecture.

The described structure is a dolmen, a type of megalithic tomb. It consists of several large stones standing upright to form a chamber, capped by a single large horizontal slab that spans the uprights, giving a table-like appearance. This combination of multiple vertical stones with a large covering capstone is the hallmark of a dolmen.

A single upright stone, called a menhir, does not form a chamber or have a capstone, so it doesn’t fit the description. The other options refer to different architectural concepts altogether: a megāron is a large rectangular hall from earlier Mediterranean cultures, and a pylon is a monumental gateway in Egyptian temple architecture.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy