What is a stylobate?
The stylobate is the top step of the stepped stone platform of a Greek temple: the surface on which the columns stand directly, which also forms the floor of the temple. The whole stepped platform is the crepidoma, and the lower steps beneath the stylobate are the stereobate. The word comes from the Greek stylos (column) and bainein (to step or walk).
Not every writer draws the line this way; some use stylobate for the whole platform. Roman temples, following Etruscan practice, stood on a high podium with steps only at the front, which is usually just called the podium.
Curvature
On several Doric temples the stylobate is not flat but rises gently towards the middle. On the Parthenon in Athens the rise is about 10 cm along a long side of almost 70 m. It has long been explained as an optical refinement, to stop the platform looking as if it sags. That explanation is now debated, but the curve itself has been measured. A side effect is that rainwater runs off towards the edges.
In practice
- Recognise the motif. On classical and neoclassical buildings a portico often stands on a stepped stone base. The top surface under the column bases is the stylobate.
- Use the right word. The surface under the columns is the stylobate; the steps below it are the stereobate.
- Plan for drainage. A porch or portico on a stone base needs a fall away from the wall and door, so that water does not stand around the column feet.
- Protect the column base. Never set a timber or steel post straight onto a wet surface. Use a stone or metal base that stays clear of standing water.
- Keep the risers equal. A stepped base is a stair, and uneven steps are a trip hazard.
Common mistake: confusing stylobate and stereobate. The stylobate is only the top step carrying the columns; the stereobate is below it.
Related terms
- Stereobate
- Crepidoma
- Column
- Plinth
- Portico
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