Zakomara

A zakomara (Russian: закомара) is a semicircular or keel-shaped exterior detail at the top of a wall in traditional Russian architecture, resembling an arch. Zakomaras typically support the roof or drum of a church or other building. They are often arranged in rows, one above the other, creating a layered effect. Zakomaras are primarily decorative, serving to visually emphasize the building's structure and roofline. They reflect a Byzantine architectural influence adapted to Russian building traditions, particularly prevalent in pre-Petrine (before Peter the Great) church architecture. The term may also refer to a curved coping or cornice following the curve of the zakomara.