Anta
![]() |
The 'anta' are at the ends of the side walls, with the two columns between them, or 'in antis'. |
In classical architecture, anta (plural: antae) are the posts or pillars that project slightly at the end of a wall. They usually flank the doorways of, or entrances to, Greek or Roman temples.
The difference between antae and columns or pillars is that they are directly connected with the temple walls. They evolved from the structural posts made of timber that were used to reinforce the brick walls of more primitive palaces or temples.
They use began with a load-bearing function, but they became more decorative as the wall materials themselves became sufficient to support the structure. Anta are a forerunner of the pilaster.
Temples would often have columns positioned between antae. These were described as being ‘in antis’.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
IHBC NewsBlog
IHBC offers a a huge thanks to our volunteers and leads at LPOC Show
The IHBC CPD partnership with the Listed Property Owners Club has again secured free places for members and an IHBC stand at the show in Olympia on 9-10 February.
IHBC welcomes 2019 School speakers
James Innerdale, on sensitive intervention for flood resilience, & Helen Brownlie, on dealing with the after effects of flood particularly in Cockermouth.
IHBC members services – checkup
Simple ways to be sure your IHBC NewsBlog email alerts read correctly, and keep up with our latest news, jobs and more!
Serious about Heritage careers as an employer or job seeker?
Stay ‘in the know’ with IHBC’s latest ‘Jobs etc.’ updates for all your conservation needs.
RTPI renews call for more resources for planning in light of NAO report
RTPI welcomes the findings of the report, ‘Planning for New Homes’, which flagged up issues, including the fall in spending and skills shortages in LA’s planning departments.
IHBC HESPR top pick from £250K+ costed work
Chartered landscape architect sought for Sydney Gardens, Bath, closing 01/03, value £47k.
Historic England Online Debate No 8
Interim protection for historic buildings before they can be listed with posts including the IHBC’s President’s ‘Confessions of a Conservation Officer’.
GII farm demolition results in £20k fine
In a successful prosecution by Chorley Council the judge highlighted the ‘public duty to ensure people don’t just ignore the listing of buildings’.
BPT launches crowdfund call to support challenges poor planning decisions in Bath
Bath Preservation Trust launches crowdfunding campaign to establish a ‘legal fighting fund’ to enable it challenge poor or irrational planning decisions in Bath...
Planning bodies response to MHCLG PDR consultation
The Consultation Institute has updated on how planning bodies have submitted strong objections to government proposals to further relax permitted development (PD) rights.
England - Spending on cultural resources slashed by £400m over 8 years
Spending on cultural resources such as museums, libraries, and the arts has been reduced by almost £400m over the last eight years of austerity CCN reveals.
UK confirms it will adopt EU standards for construction products post no-deal Brexit
Contractors, architects and product manufacturers can breathe a sigh of relief, apparently, with confirmation that products ok’d in Europe will be ok'd for UK.
Strategic framework for heritage science in the UK 2018-2023
Following a year of consultation and development by the National Heritage Science Forum (NHSF), a new strategic framework was launched at the Tower of London in 2018.
BBC on Bauhaus & its centenary year in pictures
Established in 1919, Germany's Bauhaus art school brought a radical new approach to design and aesthetics helping inform modernist architecture worldwide.
Photographic record of the concrete blocks that once protected Britain
The BBC reports on how more than 100 years ago acoustic mirrors along the coast of England were built to detect the sound of approaching German zeppelins.