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Reference.org
Vault (architecture)
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<p>In <a href="/facts/Architecture/FccThs8G">architecture</a>, a vault (French <i>voûte</i>, from Italian <i>volta</i>) is a self-supporting <a href="/facts/Arch/t9L51pqn">arched</a> form, usually of stone or brick, serving to cover a space with a ceiling or roof. As in building an arch, a temporary support is needed while rings of <a href="/facts/Voussoir/uNmV8wma">voussoirs</a> are constructed and the rings placed in position. Until the topmost voussoir, the <a href="/facts/Keystone_(architecture)/MSgwfvsa">keystone</a>, is positioned, the vault is not self-supporting. Where timber is easily obtained, this temporary support is provided by <a href="/facts/Centering/SRQbshSG">centering</a> consisting of a framed <a href="/facts/Truss/bJXJyUtz">truss</a> with a semicircular or <a href="/facts/Circular_segment/mkr8SBoq">segmental</a> head, which supports the voussoirs until the ring of the whole arch is completed. </p>