Greek Architecture
Greek architecture has been noted as some of the world's finest buildings known to man
kind. Such as the Parthenon, and the temples they built to their Gods, have been studied
over for many years. The way these structures were built is fascinating.
The Three Greek Orders of Architecture
Greek architecture is broken down into three orders. These orders were determined by
the way that the top or capital of each column was sculpted. The first order was called
the Doric Order. This was the most simple of the three. It was only meant for sturdiness,
not for beauty. The second order was called the Ionic order. They had capitals sculpted
like spiraling scrolls. They too were not that beautiful, but very sturdy. The third was
the Corinthian Order. Ta the top of each capital of this order were carved Acanthus
leaves. They were very beautiful, but not quite as sturdy as the other two. The columns
were sometimes replaced with load-bearing statues called Caryatids.
Greek Homes
Greek houses were probably the most common of all buildings. They were built out of
mud, and bricks. They all had a few rooms for dining, cooking, bathing, and sleeping. To
conclude about Greek homes, most Greek citizens spent their time away from home, so
little architectural specialties were put into the households.
Ancient Greek Temples
Greeks spent alot of hard work, time and effort into the temples they built for their
gods. This was where the three orders were put into effect. The Doric, Ionic, and
Corinthian orders were popular forms all over Greece. Greek temples were made of stone,
some were made of Marble. The Greeks constructed many acropolises, one famous one was the
Partheneon. Inside the Parthenon shows statues of Athena and Poseidon fighting in the
presence of other gods. Who ever won would rule supremely over Attica. Also inside showed
the citizens of Athens for the very first time. Most temples were a house for the gods,
and some of them still stand today.
Use of the Orders
Use of the three Greek orders depended on what region you were in.
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