Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Pinnacle Definition

History and Architecture

Pinnacle

A slender spire, often highly decorated with crocketting, used as a termination of a parapet or buttress. Some pinnacles were very finely carved, and served as a decorative embellishment to the church exterior. Church towers often have pinnacles at each of the four corners and serve to create a sense of greater height.

Related: Buttress   Spire  



English Heritage

English Heritage membership

English Heritage membership

Free entry to English Heritage properties throughout England, plus discounted admission to Historic Scotland and Cadw properties in Scotland and Wales.

Membership details

About English Heritage



Featured National Trust Property
South Foreland Lighthouse

South Foreland Lighthouse
A Victorian lighthouse stands atop the famous White Cliffs of Dover, on the western fringe of St Margaret's village. The lighthouse was the site of several famous scientific breakthroughs; Guglielmo Marconi conducted his wireless experiments …

Passionate about British Heritage!