Greek Architecture essays

Greek Architecture essays Classical Greek Architecture is one of the most well known forms of architecture. It is broken down into three orders, the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. The orders are determined by the way the capitol of the column is sculpted. The Doric order, the oldest and simplest of the three orders, originated around 400 B.C. It was developed by the Dorian Greeks and later modified by the Romans. Doric columns are fluted and rise directly from the floor. The most distinctive feature of the order is the simple cushion shape of the capitol. They were intended to be sturdy and lacked elegant design. The Ionic order originated along the coast of the Asia Minor. The Ionic column is taller and more slender than the Doric. Unlike the Doric, the Ionic column has a base. The most distinctive feature of the ionic column is the scroll shape of the capitol, which made it slightly fancier than the Doric. The Ionic order was more popular in the eastern parts of Greece where there was an emphasis on elegance and ornamentation. The Corinthian order is the most decorative and complicated of the three orders. It is also the last, not arriving until the middle of the fourth centenary, B.C. Aside from its distinct capitol, the Corinthian column is similar to the Ionic except it is more slender in size. The capitol of a Corinthian column is characterized by its elaborate floral and leafy design. The Parthenon, built in honor of the Goddess Athena, is considered to be the greatest Doric temple ever built. It was constructed between 447 and 432 BCE by the Greek sculptor Phidias and the Greek architects Ictenus and Callicrates. It is the largest temple in Greece. The Parthenon is called octo style because it has eight columns in the front and the back of it and is surrounded by a colonnade. Inside, it is constructed as most temples were. The central chamber, or cella, faced east, with a wood figure of Athena covered in gold and ivory in it. There wa ...