As the face of a building to the outside world, doorways have always been an architectural focal point and source of symbolism, representing such ideals and concepts as hope, new life, initiation, transition from one state or world to another and movement from darkness to light and vice versa. An open door represents both opportunity and freedom.

The front door is a key element of a home, symbolizing access to shelter and the warmth of the hearth. A door represents communication and connection with others and the outside world. In the home, an open door attracts visitors, signifying welcome and inviting discovery. A closed and secure door has positive connotations as well, signifying protection from the elements, danger and the unknown.

University entrances invite us to partake of knowledge and wisdom. Entrances to holy places, including temples and cathedrals, serve as an invitation to participate in ceremonies and experience the mysteries contained within.

The door of an Egyptian temple was seen to be instrumental in enabling the unification of the soul with the immortal spirit. Doors were an important source of light for the ancient Greeks. In Greek temples, light was admitted only through the entryway when the massive doors were opened. In ancient Rome, Janus was believed to be the god of the doorway, holding the keys of the power of opening and closing.

In the Hindu world, divinities are carved on door jambs, indicating the deity through which man enters the supreme presence. The Forbidden City, in Beijing, China, has many beautifully constructed and decorated doorways, including the "Giant Red Doors," the "Doorway to the Hall of Supreme Harmony," and the "Gate of Luminous Virtue." The three doors of a Christian cathedral or church signify faith, hope and charity.

During the Middle Ages, an explosion of sculpture on the portals of churches, on the sides of piers and on the contours of columns occurred in the mid-eleventh century, expanding over time to include the entire exterior. In many regions of medieval Europe, the area over a doorway became the site of innovative art and spectacular sculpture. The West Portal of the Chartres Cathedral at Notre Dame is often referred to as the Royal Portal, and is a magnificent example of early Gothic art that tells a story about important historical events.