Peristyle (noun)

An open colonnade or portico surrounding a building, especially a courtyard within a temple or palace.

Origin:

From latin peristylum, from greek peristylein 'to encircle with columns'.

Examples:

1. The peristyle was the central gathering place for citizens of the ancient city, surrounded by columns and offering shade and protection from the elements.
2. The peristyle of the temple was an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate carvings and towering columns.
3. In the peristyle, the ancient Greeks held religious ceremonies, athletic contests, and social gatherings.
4. The peristyle was also a place for philosophical discussions and debates, attracting scholars and thinkers from far and wide.
5. The peristyle remains an iconic feature of ancient Greek architecture, influencing building styles for thousands of years.