MATH 7210 : Foundations of Geometry II

University of Georgia, Spring 2001

Dr. McCrory, Instructor


Bilateral Symmetry


In bilateral symmetry, there is one vertical reflection mirror through the middle of any side of the architectural piece. Bilateral symmetry is the most common type of symmetry in architecture and is found in all cultures and time periods. In architecture, some bilateral schemes are more desirable than others. For example, the Greeks avoided having a column on the vertical mirror by always using an even number of columns.

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


Example 1: Eiffel Tower

Location: Paris, France

Architect: Gustave Eiffel

Building Type: Exposition observation tower

Symmetry: Vertical mirror through each side of the tower.

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


Example 2: Torii of Itsukushinma

Location: Miyajima Island, Japan

Architect: Unknown

Building Type: Temple monument

Symmetry: Vertical mirror through each side of the monument.

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


Example 3: The Parthenon

Location: Athens, Greece

Architect: Ictinus and Callicrates with Phidias

Building Type: Temple

Symmetry: Vertical mirror through each side of the temple.

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


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