Sima (architecture)

In classical architecture, a sima is the upturned edge of a roof which acts as a gutter.

The term "sima" comes from the Greek simos, meaning bent upwards.

The lateral sima runs along the horizontal edges and is broken by downspouts to let out rainwater.

Stone simas have continuous narratives, especially on the raking sides where they are not interrupted by spouts, similar to a frieze.

These animal heads may have served as religious symbolism, or as puns on the structure's geographic location.