spire

In architecture, an elongated pyramidal structure erected on the top of a tower. Though commonly regarded as an ornamental feature, it was originally a normal pyramidal roof (as at Southwell Cathedral, England); but in Gothic times it was elongated to a much greater height, either for effect or to express medieval religious aspiration. Sometimes an octagonal stone spire rises direct from a square tower without a parapet, the transition being made by means of ‘broaches’ (see broach spire); sometimes the tower has a parapet.

In England there are stone spires on Chichester, Norwich, and Salisbury cathedrals; and on the parish churches of Louth, Newark, and Patrington. There are wooden spires at Chesterfield and Harrow.