Wall: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Oct. 24, 2026

Facts

Also Known As	partition

Topics

drywall construction gate non-load-bearing wall Parapet Clerestory Retaining wall Balustrade Niche Shear wall Chigai-dana Roof Ceiling foundation Floor garden and landscape design heating Farm building elevator Order Window

Dig Deeper: More Articles That Discuss This Topic

Great Wall of China. In c. 220 B.C., under Qin Shi Huang, sections of earlier fortifications were joined together to form a united defence system against invasions from the north. Construction continued up to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), when (see notes)

A Quiz About Walls and More