thumb|260px|Entablatures at [[Caesarea Maritima]]
thumb|260px|Entablature at the [[Temple of Venus Genetrix, Rome]]
An entablature (; nativization of Italian , from "in" and "table") is the superstructure of moldings and bands which lies horizontally above columns, resting on their capitals. Entablatures are major elements of classical architecture, and are commonly divided into the architrave (the supporting member immediately above; equivalent to the lintel in post and lintel construction), the frieze (an unmolded strip that may or may not be ornamented), and the cornice (the projecting member below the pediment). The use of the entablature, irrespective of columns, appeared after the Renaissance.
See also
- Classical order
- Classical architecture
- Prastara, an entablature in the Hindu temple architecture