Diaphragm arch explained

A diaphragm arch is a transverse wall-bearing arch forming a partial wall dividing a vault or a ceiling into compartments.^[1]

When used under a wooden roof (with solid spandrels) it has the advantage of providing a partial firebreak.^[2] It was first used in Roman Syria, during the 2nd century AD.^[3]

See also

• Islamic architecture
• Romanesque architecture
• Kucheh

Notes and References

1. Technical Terms and the Understanding of English Medieval Architecture" E. C. Fernie, Architectural History Vol. 44, (2001), pp. 13-21 https://www.jstor.org/pss/1568729
2. https://books.google.com/books?id=HyjqAAAAMAAJ&q=%22diaphragm+arch%22+history Architecture in Britain: the Middle Ages, Volume 12, p. 210
3. https://books.google.com/books?id=DHVMAAAAYAAJ&q=%22diaphragm+arch%22+origin Arte medievale, 1987