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What is a Hemicycle?

By Jackie Craven, About.com

The Curtis Meyer Residence, Frank Lloyd Wright

The Curtis Meyer Residence by Frank Lloyd Wright is an example of hemicycle design

Photo © the homeowner. Reprinted with permission
Definition:
A hemicyle is a half-circle. In architecture, a hemicycle is a wall, building, or architectural feature that forms a the shape of a half circle.

In medieval architecture, a hemicycle is a semicircular formation of columns around the choir section of a church or cathedral. The word hemicycle can also describe a horseshoe arrangement of seating in a stadium, theater, or meeting hall.

American architect Frank Lloyd Wright experimented with the hemicycle form. Examples:

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