Greek Architecture Notes

Greek Architecture

Introduction

• Ancient Greeks excelled in art and architecture.
• Public buildings featured carvings of animals, people’s faces, leaves, and flowers.

Religious and Political Significance of Temples

• Greek life was deeply rooted in religion, making temples the grandest structures.
• Temples served political functions:
  • Displayed civic pride and the city-state's power.
  • Offered gratitude to the city-state's patron deity for triumphs in war.
• Materials used were limestone or marble, with wooden roofs or ceilings.

Athens and the Acropolis

• Acropolis: A hilltop collection of monuments and temples in Athens dedicated to the gods.
• The Parthenon is the most famous structure on the Acropolis.
• The Parthenon was a place where gods were worshiped
• Construction of the Parthenon:
  • Began in 447 BC
  • Completed in 438 BC

The Three Orders of Columns

• Column types are called "orders" due to their ordered and coordinated parts and proportions.
• The three orders are:
  • The Doric Order
  • The Ionic Order
  • The Corinthian Order

The Doric Column

• Simple style.
• Columns were grooved or fluted.
• Plain top (capital).
• Lacked a base; it stood directly on the floor.

The Ionic Column

• More delicate and decorative.
• Taller and slimmer than Doric columns.
• Fluted with flattened ribs between each flute.
• Rested on a decorative base (plinth).
• The capital was carved into a fluted shape.

Corinthian Columns

• The most intricate and decorative.
• Fluted with a flattened rib between each flute.
• Capital adorned with carved leaves and vines.

Modern Examples

• Examples of these types of columns can be found in buildings today such as the NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE.