Métope (metope)

Sculptured interval on a frise (frieze) or between two modilllons (corbels) under a corniche (cornice).
In the picture (Wikipedia) can be seen what métopes meant in classic antiquity.
The picture underneath is not taken at a roman (Romanesque) church, nor is it showing a cornice; the idea however may be clear.
The picture was taken at the Notre-Dame of Paris.

Métope - Wikipdia

Notre-Dame - Paris