MATH 7210 : Foundations of Geometry II

University of Georgia, Spring 2001

Dr. McCrory, Instructor


Combinations of Symmetries


Most architectural pieces contain more than one type of symmetry. Some architectural pieces exhibit combinations of symmetries that can be seen without the observer changing his or her viewpoint. Others require the observer to change his or her physical position by moving around or into the architectural piece.

Resource: Williams, Kim (1998). Symmetry in Architecture. (http://turing.mi.ssau.ac.yu/vismath/kim/)


Which Types of Architectural Symmetry Can You Find in the Following Examples?

 

 Florence Cathedral

 King's College Chapel

 

 

Location: Florence, Italy

Architect: Arnolfo di Cambio

Building Type: Domed church, cathedral

Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Florence_Cathedral.html

 Location: Cambridge, England

Architect: Unknown

Building Type: Church, chapel

Resource: Stirbitch.com (http://www.stirbitch.com/cantab/photos/kings_chapel_s_elev.html)

 

 Taj Mahal

 Orvieto Cathedral

 

 

 Location: Agra, India

Architect: Emperor Shah Jahan

Building Type: Islamic tomb

Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Taj_Mahal.html)

 Location: Orvieto, Italy

Architect: Arnolfo di Cambio

Building Type: Church

Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Orvieto_Cathedral.html

 

 Great Pyramid of Khufu

 Karlskirche

 

 

 Location: El Giza, Egypt

Architect: Unknown

Building Type: Pyramid tomb, monument

Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Great_Pyramid.html

 Location: Vienna, Austria

Architect: Johann Fischer von Erlach

Building Type: Church

Resource: GreatBuildings.com (http://www.GreatBuildings.com/buildings/Karlskirche.html


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