Ancient Greece is known for its rich history and culture, which has greatly influenced the world we live in today. One of the significant aspects of ancient Greece that still fascinates us is its architecture.
The Greeks built impressive structures that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Let’s dive into what the buildings were like in ancient Greece.
The Materials Used
The Greeks primarily used stone, wood, and clay to construct their buildings. Stone was the most commonly used material, and it was readily available in Greece.
Marble, limestone, and sandstone were among the types of stone that they used. Wood was also abundant in some parts of Greece, so it was frequently utilized as well. Clay was mostly used for roofing tiles and some decorative elements.
The Style
Grecian architecture is known for its balanced proportions, clean lines, and simple elegance. The three main styles prevalent during ancient times were Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.
Doric style is the simplest of all styles with plain columns that have no base at their bottom. The columns are fluted with a capital that looks like a rounded plate.
Ionic style has more ornate columns with a base at their bottom. The capitals are decorated with volutes or scrolls.
Corinthian style features the most elaborate columns with a base at their bottom too. The capitals are adorned with acanthus leaves or other intricate designs.
The Buildings
The Parthenon
One of the most famous examples of Greek architecture is the Parthenon in Athens – a temple dedicated to goddess Athena. It was built-in 447 BC using white marble from Mount Pentelicus near Athens. The Parthenon is a perfect example of Doric architecture with eight columns on each end and seventeen columns on each side.
The Temple of Apollo
The Temple of Apollo in Corinth is another example of ancient Greek architecture. It is a Doric temple built in the 6th century BC.
The temple was designed to honor Apollo, the god of music, poetry, and prophecy. It has six columns on each end and fifteen columns on each side.
The Erechtheion
The Erechtheion is a temple located in Athens that was built-in 421 BC. It features a combination of Ionic and Corinthian styles with six draped female figures supporting the roof at the southern portico known as Caryatids.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ancient Greek architecture was characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and balance. The Greeks used stone, wood, and clay to construct their buildings, with marble being the most commonly used material.
Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian styles were prevalent in ancient Greece. The Parthenon in Athens, the Temple of Apollo in Corinth, and the Erechtheion are some examples of ancient Greek architecture that still inspire awe today.