The human skull is a 22-bone skeletal structure protecting the brain and forming the face, composed of the neurocranium (8 cranial bones) and viscerocranium (14 facial bones). It provides structural support for the head, encloses the brain, and houses sensory organs. The mandible (jaw) is the only movable bone, while others are joined by sutures. 

Key Components and Structure

• Neurocranium (Braincase): Protects the brain, comprising the frontal, parietal (2), temporal (2), occipital, sphenoid, and ethmoid bones. The top is the calvaria.
• Viscerocranium (Facial Skeleton): Forms the face, eyesockets, nose, and jaw, including the maxilla, zygomatic, and nasal bones.
• Sutures: Immobile, fibrous joints that hold cranial bones together (e.g., coronal, sagittal, lambdoid).
• Foramen Magnum: A large opening at the base where the spinal cord connects to the brain. 

Main Functions

• Protection: Shields the brain and sensory organs (eyes, ears) from injury.
• Support: Provides structure for the face and attachment points for facial and scalp muscles.
• Respiration/Digestion: Forms the framework for the nasal cavity and mouth.