Q

QAL’AT SEMAN. Pilgrimage complex near Antioch, located at the site of the pillar on which the stylite called Symeon the Stylite the Elder (died 459) sat for some 30 years, as a form of asceticism.

Built ca. 476–490, its central core is an octagonal structure (which may or may not have had a roof), in the center of which was Symeon’s pillar. Radiating out from the octagon are four basilicas, probably aimed at managing the large numbers of pilgrims. Monastic buildings are located in the immediate vicinity. The entire complex is situated on a prominent hill, below which are the remains of a small settlement where pilgrims could find places to stay. Constructed with the support of the emperor Zeno, the complex is a portion of the finest architecture produced in Byzantium in the fifth century, with finely carved capitals of acanthus and other lovely architectural details. See also MONASTICISM; PILGRIM FLASK.

QUAESTOR OF THE SACRED PALACE. The Quaestor of the Sacred Palace (quaestor sacri palatii) was the supreme legal minister whose duty it was to draft imperial laws, in addition to being the emperor’s chief legal advisor. The famous Tribonian occupied this post during the reign of Justinian I. See also LAW.

QUINCUNX. See ARCHITECTURE; CROSS-IN-THE-SQUARE CHURCH.