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An overhanging, wall-mounted turret projecting from the walls of me-
dieval fortifications.
Basement
Lowest, subordinate storey of building often either entirely or partially

below ground level; the lowest part of classical elevation, below the piano
nobile.

Basilica
Originally a Roman, large roofed hall erected for transacting business
and disposing of legal matters.; later the term came to describe an aisled
building with a clerestory. Medieval cathedral plans were a development

of the basilica plan type.
Batter

Upwardly receding slope of a wall or column.
Battlement
A parapet (i.e., a defensive low wall between chest-height and head-

height), in which rectangular gaps or indentations occur at intervals to al-
low for the discharge of arrows or other missiles.
Bays

Internal compartments of a building; each divided from the other by
subtle means such as the boundaries implied by divisions marked in the
side walls (columns, pilasters, etc.) or the ceiling (beams, etc.). Also exter-
nal divisions of a building by fenestration (windows).

Bay window
Window of one or more storeys projecting from the face of a build-

ing. Canted: with a straight front and angled sides. Bow window:
curved. Oriel: rests on corbels or brackets and starts above ground level;
also the bay window at the dais end of a medieval great hall.

Belfry
Chamber or stage in a tower where bells are hung. The term is also
used to describe the manner in which bricks are laid in a wall so that they

interlock.
Boss
1. Roughly cut stone set in place for later carving.

2. An ornamental projection, a carved keystone of a ribbed vault at
the intersection of the ogives.

Bossage
Uncut stone that is laid in place in a building, projecting outward from
the building, to later be carved into decorative moldings, capitals, arms,

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