Lintel vs. Architrave — What's the Difference?

A lintel or lintol is a structural horizontal block that spans the space or opening between two vertical supports. It can be a decorative architectural element, or a combined ornamented structural item.

In classical architecture, an architrave (; from Italian: architrave "chief beam", also called an epistyle; from Greek ἐπίστυλον epistylon "door frame") is the lintel or beam that rests on the capitals of columns. The term can also apply to all sides, including the vertical members, of a frame with mouldings around a door or window.

A horizontal support of timber, stone, concrete, or steel across the top of a door or window.

The lowermost part of an entablature in classical architecture, resting directly on top of the columns. Also called epistyle.

A horizontal structural member, such as a beam or stone, that spans an opening, as between the uprights of a door or window or between two columns or piers.

The molding around a door or window.

(architectural element) A horizontal structural beam spanning an opening, such as between the uprights of a door or a window, and which supports the wall above.

(architecture) The lowest part of an entablature; rests on the capitals of the columns.

A horizontal member spanning an opening, and carrying the superincumbent weight by means of its strength in resisting crosswise fracture.

(architecture) The moldings (or other elements) framing a door, window or other rectangular opening.

Horizontal beam used as a finishing piece over a door or window

The lower division of an entablature, or that part which rests immediately on the column, esp. in classical architecture. See Column.

The molding around a door or window

The lowest part of an entablature; rests immediately on the capitals of the columns