Ancient Greek Architecture

Introduction

• Presenter: Kelly from World History Encyclopedia.
• Content: Exploring the architecture of ancient Greece and its influence on modern Western architecture.
• Support: Encourages audience to like, subscribe, and support via Patreon.

Influence of Greek Architecture

• Ancient Greek architecture influenced Hellenistic, Roman, and modern Western architecture.
• Notable buildings include theatres, temples, and stadia.

Classical Orders of Architecture

• Columns: Key feature associated with Greek architecture.
• Five Classical Orders:
  • Doric: No base, simple capital, evolved from wooden pillars.
  • Ionic: Base, scroll capital, slim and straight column.
  • Corinthian: Decorative capital with acanthus and fern leaves.
  • Tuscan & Composite: Developed by Romans, influenced by Greek orders.

Materials Used

• Early structures made of wood, later replaced by stone and marble.
• Preferred marble sources: Naxos, Paros, and Mount Pentelikon.

Modern Examples

• Lincoln Memorial: Doric columns.
• Prado Museum: Ionic columns.
• US Capitol: Corinthian columns.

Famous Greek Temples

• Parthenon: Atop the Acropolis of Athens, designed by Phidias.
• Temple of Zeus at Olympia: Completed circa 460 BCE.
• Temple of Artemis at Ephesus: One of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Architectural Techniques

• Utilized optical tricks for a straight appearance.
• Peristyle Temples: Rectangular with columned sides and facades.
• Erechtheion: Notable for Caryatids (female columns).

Decoration and Sculpture

• Temples decorated with colorful pediments, friezes, and metopes depicting mythology or history.

Structural Stability

• Techniques to prevent water damage and maintain stability.
• Some buildings survived better due to less human interference.

Stoas

• Long roofed buildings with columns, used for meetings and storage.
• In Hellenistic period, became enclosed spaces for sports.

Amphitheatres

• Developed in 5th century BCE.
• Open-air, semicircular with excellent acoustics.
• Theatre of Dionysus: Famous for Sophocles, Aeschylus, and Euripides.

Stadia

• Named for the stade footrace.
• Evolved into seating arrangements with drainage systems.
• Famous examples: Nemea and Olympia.

Conclusion

• Greek architecture models influenced modern stadiums and arenas.
• Encourages viewers to find Greek architectural features in their own cities.

Closing Remarks

• Encourages audience interaction and support.
• Provides links for more content and merchandise.