Question

Which of the following is characterized by a forest-like arrangement of columns supporting the roof?

• A. Pylon
• B. Hypostyle Hall
• C. Obelisk
• D. Mastaba

Hint:

\textbf{Hypostyle Hall:} A hall with its roof supported by a dense arrangement of columns, creating a "forest of columns" effect.
This feature is prominent in ancient Egyptian temple architecture (e.g., Karnak, Luxor).
\textbf{Pylon:} Monumental temple gateway.
\textbf{Obelisk:} Tall, tapering monolithic pillar.
\textbf{Mastaba:} Early Egyptian flat-roofed rectangular tomb.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The description "a forest-like arrangement of columns supporting the roof" refers to a specific architectural feature found in ancient temple architecture, particularly Egyptian. Let's examine the options:
(a) Pylon: In ancient Egyptian architecture, a pylon is a monumental gateway to a temple, typically consisting of two massive, tapering towers with a central doorway. It's an entrance structure, not a hall filled with columns.
(b) Hypostyle Hall: "Hypostyle" (from Greek \textit{hypostylos}) means "under columns." A hypostyle hall is a large interior space whose roof is supported by many closely spaced columns or pillars. This dense arrangement of columns can evoke the image of a forest. Famous examples include the Great Hypostyle Hall at the Karnak Temple Complex in Egypt.
(c) Obelisk: An obelisk is a tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument which ends in a pyramid-like shape (pyramidion) at the top. They were often erected in pairs at the entrances of ancient Egyptian temples. It's a monolithic monumental pillar, not a hall.
(d) Mastaba: A mastaba is an ancient Egyptian tomb, rectangular in shape with sloping sides and a flat roof, built of mud-brick or stone. It was a precursor to pyramids. It's a tomb structure, not a hall characterized by a forest of columns. The architectural feature characterized by a "forest-like arrangement of columns supporting the roof" is a Hypostyle Hall. \[ \boxed{\text{Hypostyle Hall}} \]