Architecture of Ancient Greece

The distinctive architectural style of the Ancient Greeks is still imitated in present-day public buildings and significant monuments all across the world. Tall columns, meticulous detail, symmetry, harmony, and balance are all characteristics of Greek architecture. The Greeks created a wide variety of structures. The enormous temples that the Greeks erected in honor of their gods are the primary surviving examples of Greek architecture.

Greek Pillars

The majority of Greek temples and governmental structures were constructed using one of three architectural styles: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian. These “orders” or “styles” were represented in the kind of columns that were employed. Most of the columns had fluting, which are grooves that run down the sides. As a result, the columns appeared to have depth and proportion.

Doric – The Doric columns were the thickest and most straightforward of the Greek designs. They had a plain capital at the top and no adornment at the base. Doric columns tapered, making the bottom of each column wider than the top.

Ionic – Ionic columns had a base at the bottom and were thinner than Doric columns. Scrolls were used to embellish the top capital on both sides.

Corinthian – The Corinthian order was the most ornamental of the three. Scrolls and acanthus leaves were used to embellish the capital. Later Greek history saw the rise of the Corinthian order, which the Romans largely imitated.

Temples

Greek temples were opulent structures with a rather straightforward architecture. A line of columns ringed the exterior. The frieze, a beautiful sculptural panel, was located above the columns. The pediment, a triangle-shaped space containing more sculptures, was located above the frieze. The statue of the temple’s god or goddess was kept in an inner chamber of the temple.

West view of the Parthenon in a picture

The Parthenon, which is situated on the Acropolis in the city of Athens, is the most well-known temple of Ancient Greece. For the goddess Athena, it was created. Doric architecture was used in the construction of the Parthenon. It featured 46 exterior columns that were each 34 feet tall and 6 feet in diameter. A huge Athena figure made of gold and ivory was located in the inner room.

Other Structures

The Greeks constructed a wide range of public buildings and structures in addition to temples. Large theaters with seating for more than 10,000 people were constructed. Usually built into a hillside, the theaters had acoustics that made it possible for people in the rear seats to hear the actors. They also constructed covered passageways known as “stoas” where people conducted public gatherings and merchants sold their wares. The courthouse, council building, and sports stadium were among the other public structures.

Architectural Elements

Column-T 
In Greek architecture, the column is the most noticeable feature. In addition to supporting the roof, columns provided structures a sense of stability, strength, and balance.

Financial –
The column’s top had a decoration known as the capital. Some were simple (such as the Doric), while others were elaborate (such as the Corinthian).

Frieze –
Above the columns, the frieze was a beautiful panel with relief sculptures. The sculptures frequently chronicled an important event or presented a story.

Pediment –
At each extremity of the structure, between the frieze and the roof, stood the pediment, which was shaped like a triangle. It also included sculptures for decoration.

Cella –
The cella or naos was the name for the interior room in a temple.

Propylaea
a ceremonial entrance. The most well-known one is located in Athens at the Acropolis entrance.

Interesting Information Regarding Ancient Greek Architecture

A small, round temple called a “tholos” was constructed by the Greeks.

An architect oversaw the workers and craftspeople on large construction projects.

The Greek statues and buildings were frequently painted in vivid hues.

Typically, roofs were built with a slight slope and covered in ceramic terracotta tiles.

The majority of temples were constructed on a base with two or three steps. As a result, the temple was elevated above the terrain below.