Ancient Greece Vocabulary

Ionic

A style of classical architecture characterized by slender, fluted columns and scroll-like ornaments on the capitals.

Kouros

An ancient Greek statue of a young male, typically standing and often nude, representing the idealized form of youth and beauty.

Krater

A type of ancient Greek pottery used for mixing wine and water, often decorated with intricate scenes.

Metope

A panel between the triglyphs of a Doric frieze, often adorned with relief sculptures depicting mythological battles or scenes.

Mosaic

A decorative art form created by assembling small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials to form images or patterns, commonly used in ancient Greek and Roman architecture.

Nike

The Greek goddess of victory, often depicted with wings and associated with triumph in battle and athletic competitions.

Pananthenaic Way

The ceremonial road in ancient Athens that connected the Agora to the Acropolis, used during the Panathenaic Festival for processions and celebrations.

Pediment

A triangular upper part of a building, typically found above the entrance, often adorned with sculptures and reliefs in classical architecture.

Peristyle

A colonnade surrounding a courtyard or garden in classical architecture, often found in Greek temples and homes.

Peplos

A traditional garment worn by women in ancient Greece, typically made of wool and fastened at the shoulders.

Portico

A structure consisting of a roof supported by columns at the entrance of a building, often leading to a porch or vestibule in classical architecture.

Propylaeum

The monumental gateway to a temple or sacred area in ancient Greece, serving as an entrance that often features columns and decorative elements.

Stoa

A covered walkway or portico in ancient Greek architecture, often used for public use and commerce, typically supported by columns.

Tholos

A circular building in ancient Greek architecture, often used as a temple or tomb, characterized by its dome and elaborate construction.

Triglyph

A decorative element in classical architecture, specifically in the Doric frieze, consisting of three vertical grooves or channels that alternate with metopes.