What is "peristasis"

n. 1 (context architecture English) A four-sided porch or hall of columns surrounding the cella in an Ancient Greek peripteros temple. 2 (context medicine English) An inactive phase of vasoconstriction in inflammation.

The Peristasis was a four-sided porch or hall of columns surrounding the cella in an ancient Greek peripteros temple. This allowed priests to pass round the cella (along a pteron) in cultic processions. If such a hall of columns surrounds a patio or garden, it is called a peristyle rather than a peristasis. In ecclesial architecture, it is also used of the area between the baluster of a Catholic church and the high altar (what is usually called the sanctuary or chancel).

Category:Ancient Roman architecture Category:Greek temples Category:Architectural elements

Peristasis may refer to:

• Peristasis (architecture)
• Peristasis, inactive phases of vasoconstriction in inflammation