Vertical connectors between successive drums in ancient columns: literature and in-situ investigation
Vertical connectors between successive drums in ancient columns: literature and in-situ investigation
Vertical connectors (in greek called gomfoi), were placed between successive drums in ancient columns. Even though it was a widespread construction feature of ancient architecture, it is insufficiently documented. The present article collates existing literature and new field observations in order to describe their geometry, materials, positioning and associated pathology in a broad range of monuments from Classical, Hellenistic and Roman times. The study covers sites in Greece and in eastern Mediterranean area and aims to clarify the extent to which this construction technique was adopted, the variations it exhibits across regions and periods, and the typical damage patterns observed today. By bringing together scattered references and systematic on-site measurements, the paper seeks to provide an overview that can serve as a reference for future architectural and structural studies of ancient multi-drum columns.
Vasiliki Palieraki; Eleni Tavouktsi; Eleni Karakike; Constantinos Arvanitis
4th International Symposium on the Preservation of Monuments and Historic Sites
Restoration Engineering and Structural Interventions
https://doi.org/10.53243/tc301-2026-63