Significance of Dome

Most religious architectural structures in the world are capped with a dome. In fact the architectural lineage of domes dates back to the prehistoric era when domes were constructed from a variety of materials such as metal, snow, mud, wood, stone and even concrete. Domes were usually associated with power and an elevated stature in society, and it may be observed that domes find a position atop the US Capitol in Washington D.C., the Florence Cathedral, a Catholic Church in Florence, Italy, the Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem. Domes were also reflective of usage of advanced mathematics, techniques and materials. Gradually the technique of raising the dome on piers was invented, which permitted lighting and communication. The circle of a dome represents eternity and perfection.

Largest Domes in the world

Philosopher Saint Shri Dnyaneshwara
World Peace Prayer Hall
Vishwarajbaug, Pune, India
Year: 2018 Dia: 160 ft. Height: 263 ft.

St. Peter Basilica Vatican City
Italy
Year: 1615 Dia: 138 ft. Height: 446 ft.

Pantheon Rome
Italy
Year: AD 126-128 Dia: 142 ft. Height: 71 ft.

Gol Gumbadh Bijapur
India
Year: 1656 Dia: 124 ft. Height: 167 ft.

Taj Mahal Agra
Uttar Pradesh, India
Year: 1653 Dia: 58 ft. Height: 240 ft.

Qutub Minar
New Delhi, India
Year: 1220 Dia: Base 47 ft./ Top 9 ft. Height: 238 ft.