Pediments

Pediments are a form of gable in classical architecture, usually of a triangular shape. Pediments are placed above the horizontal structure of the cornice (an elaborated lintel), or entablature if supported by columns. In ancient architecture, a wide and low triangular pediment (the side angles 12.5° to 16°) typically formed the top element of the portico of a Greek temple, a style continued in Roman temples. Large pediments were rare on other types of building before Renaissance architecture. For symmetric designs, a pediment forms a center point and is often used to add grandness to entrances.