crypta
Among the ancient Romans, any long narrow vault, whether wholly or partially below ground level; usually around the courtyard of a Roman villa or farmhouse; used to store grain, fruit, etc. 2. A long narrow gallery, at ground level, enclosed by walls on both sides and receiving its light from rows of windows in one or both of the side walls which enclose it; somewhat resembles a cloister. Structures of this type were frequently built by the ancient Romans for the convenience and pleasure of the population; sometimes built as adjuncts to great mansions or to the promenades connected with a theatre, and commonly were attached to the side of an open colonnade. 3. The stalls for horses and chariots in a circus. (Harris, 1977)