Convert Cubit (Greek) (cubit (greek)) to Ken (ken) instantly.
About these units
Cubit (Greek) (cubit (greek))
The Greek cubit (approximately 0.462 meters) is an ancient unit based on the length of the forearm from elbow to fingertip. It was widely used in Greek architecture, engineering, and construction projects, including temples and civic buildings. Greek architects and surveyors applied the cubit to create proportional structures, ensuring harmony between different elements of a building. Its simplicity — derived from the human body — made it practical for field measurements in the absence of standardized tools. The cubit also held symbolic and ritual significance, often appearing in religious texts, design manuals, and classical literature. Modern historians and archaeologists study the Greek cubit to reconstruct ancient plans and understand the practical realities of classical building techniques.
Ken (ken)
The ken is a traditional Japanese unit of length, typically about 1.8 meters, though historically it ranged from 1.6 to 1.9 meters depending on the era and region. The ken is deeply tied to traditional Japanese architecture, especially temple and shrine construction. In classic building design, the ken measured the spacing between pillars in wooden structures. Because Japanese architecture emphasizes modularity and harmonious proportions, the ken allowed builders to create spaces that were both structurally efficient and aesthetically consistent. Many tatami room layouts are also derived from ken-based proportions. Beyond architecture, the ken carried symbolic importance in religious and cultural contexts. Temples were often laid out using ken multiples, reinforcing a sense of order, symmetry, and sacred geometry. Even though modern Japan uses the metric system, the ken persists in the restoration and preservation of historical buildings.