What is the difference between a pillar and a column?


What is the difference between a pillar and a column? All pillars are columns, but not all columns are pillars. This is because all pillars must serve a structural purpose in addition to any aesthetic purpose it maintains. In contrast, a column can only serve aesthetic purposes if they are not needed for weight-bearing purposes.


What is the purpose of pillars?

As a large solid structure, pillars provide firm support for another larger structure. Pillars distribute the weight from a roof or ceiling and support heavy loads. In construction, they often serve to make buildings more attractive and are used to exhibit freestanding monuments.