Xystus (architectural term)

Xystus (Ancient Greek: ξυστός) was originally the ancient Greek architectural term for the covered portico of the gymnasium, in which the exercises took place during the winter or in rainy weather.

The ancient Romans applied the term to a covered garden walk with porticoes for winter exercise, or to a promenade between rows of large trees.

[1][2] The term xystus derives from the Greek word xustos, meaning "smooth", due to the polished floor of the xystus.

"Xystus" was used, by extension, to refer to the whole building containing the gymnasium and portico, as in the xysti of Jerusalem and Elis.

[5] Xystarches (ξυστάρχης) was an officer who superintended the exercise of the xystus[6] and xysticus (ξυστικός) was called an athlete who practised in xystus.