An arcade is a succession of contiguous arches, with each arch supported by a colonnade of columns or piers. Exterior arcades are designed to provide a sheltered walkway for pedestrians; they include many loggias, but here arches are not an essential element. An arcade may feature arches on both sides of the walkway. Alternatively, a blind arcade superimposes arcading against a solid wall.
Norman blind arcade, Ely Cathedral
Arcades of the Colosseum (AD 70s) from the outside
Arcades inside the Mosque of Uqba, also known as the Great Mosque of Kairouan, in Tunisia (670). There is no vaulting; the arches are bridged by wooden beams
These arcades in Córdoba were begun in the 780s; Some are topped by beams, others by barrel vaults.
An arch is a curved vertical structure spanning an open space underneath it. Arch can either support the load above it or perform a purely decorative role. The arch dates back to fourth millennium BC, but became popular only after its adoption by the Romans in the 4th century BC.
Gateway Arch
A complex funicular model (Church of Colònia Güell by Gaudi, 19th century)
Arcades of Pont du Gard (Roman)
Separating arches in the St. Zeno church [de]