For aesthetics, keystones are often larger than ribs in vaults and many of the voussoirs (arch stones) in arches, or embellished with a boss. A "dropped keystone" is one where the …

The keystone is often the final piece placed during construction, and its insertion allows the arch to support itself and any loads above it. It is not only a structural necessity but also often a …

During construction of an arch, the voussoirs require support from below until the keystone has been set in place; this support usually takes the form of temporary wooden centring.

Aug 8, 2025 · Preparing and inserting the keystone into an arch composed of rubble masonry works best with some planning. In this post we investigate some tips on how to place the final …

Jun 26, 2024 · The keystone is the last stone to be placed during the construction of an arch, effectively locking the other stones into place and allowing the arch to support weight.

Oct 27, 2025 · In masonry, a keystone refers to the central, wedge-shaped stone at the top of an arch or vault. It is a crucial element of the architectural structure as it locks the other stones in …

Mar 27, 2023 · What does keystone mean in architecture? The keystone is the wedge-shaped piece at the crown of an arch that locks the other pieces in place. The keystone is the last …

Nov 11, 2025 · The keystone is a crucial element in arch construction, acting as the "key" that supports the structure. Positioned at the apex of the arch, it helps to distribute weight evenly …

Jan 7, 2010 · It is true that Egyptian, Babylonian, Greek and Assyrian civilizations used arches for underground structures such as drains and vaults. However, it was the Roman civilization …

Keystone is a fundamental concept in architecture and construction, referring to the central wedge-shaped stone placed at the apex of an arch. This stone is crucial to the structural …