When one sets out to build an impressive, modern building, one might be calling upon architecture that is 2,000 years old. That architecture would be ancient Greek architecture. Why Greek architecture? The answer is that Greek architecture established a new way of thinking about and using space. The Greeks thought about the rational organization of buildings and cities. They established the foundations for a spirit of creative experimentation in design and a vision of freedom. This way of thinking is relevant in our modern times. Greek culture has had a tremendous impact on the world, and the influence of Greek architecture is evident in styles of architecture today.
2. The Greek Parthenon may have been the most significant piece of ancient …show more content…
The Greek concepts of simplicity, proportion, perspective and harmony have greatly influenced architects and their work throughout time. In a trickle-down process, these concepts influenced Roman architects and provided the foundation for the classical architectural orders. In turn the classical orders dominated the western world from the Renaissance to the present day. The Prado Museum in Madrid, Downing College at Cambridge University in England, the Temple of Poseidon in Italy, the Chamber of Commerce in Dougherty County, Georgia, and the New York Stock Exchange, Penn Station, and the Low Library at Columbia University in New York City are just a few examples where the influence of Greek architecture can be seen. In Washington D. C. Greek influence is seen in the façade of the Lincoln Memorial, and the neoclassical style of Capitol Hill. This style, inspired by Greeks and Romans, includes the use of tall columns, symmetrical shapes, triangular pediments and domed roofs. The U. S. Capitol Building and the U. S. Supreme Court are two well-known buildings that exemplify neoclassic architecture. In addition, modern day architects use many of the same building materials that were used by the Greeks, including wood, unbaked bricks, limestone, marble, terracotta and metals. Looking around the downtown of nearly any major city in the United States and many of the great cities of Europe, one is certain
2. The Greek Parthenon may have been the most significant piece of ancient …show more content…
The Greek concepts of simplicity, proportion, perspective and harmony have greatly influenced architects and their work throughout time. In a trickle-down process, these concepts influenced Roman architects and provided the foundation for the classical architectural orders. In turn the classical orders dominated the western world from the Renaissance to the present day. The Prado Museum in Madrid, Downing College at Cambridge University in England, the Temple of Poseidon in Italy, the Chamber of Commerce in Dougherty County, Georgia, and the New York Stock Exchange, Penn Station, and the Low Library at Columbia University in New York City are just a few examples where the influence of Greek architecture can be seen. In Washington D. C. Greek influence is seen in the façade of the Lincoln Memorial, and the neoclassical style of Capitol Hill. This style, inspired by Greeks and Romans, includes the use of tall columns, symmetrical shapes, triangular pediments and domed roofs. The U. S. Capitol Building and the U. S. Supreme Court are two well-known buildings that exemplify neoclassic architecture. In addition, modern day architects use many of the same building materials that were used by the Greeks, including wood, unbaked bricks, limestone, marble, terracotta and metals. Looking around the downtown of nearly any major city in the United States and many of the great cities of Europe, one is certain