Greek Architecture Overview

The path leading up to the Acropolis was not straight, but a zigzagging route that passed across the central axis of the complex.

A Greek order of architecture characterized by its bell-shaped capital decorated with carved acanthus leaves. Its symmetrical design allows for viewing from all angles.

The Temple of Athena Nike was the first prominent structure visitors encountered as they ascended the Acropolis.

The highest point in a Greek city, typically a sacred site dedicated to various gods.

The central marketplace or public space in a Greek city-state, serving as the economic, social, and political hub.

The Propylaea had two wings, each with a Doric portico, and a central space with Ionic columns.

The Propylaea's central space was wider than the rest, allowing for processions to pass through.

An independent city-state in ancient Greece, which was both a political entity and a geographical region.

The democratic form of government that emerged in ancient Greece, allowing for citizen participation in decision-making.

The Propylaea was built on a slope, requiring the use of Ionic columns in the central passageway for better visual balance.

The northern wing of the Propylaea possibly served as a gallery or a banquet hall.

The ancient bronze age fortified settlements that often served as the foundations for later Greek city-states.

The southern wing of the Propylaea featured a porch connected to the freestanding Temple of Athena Nike.

The gradual expansion and development of Greek city-states, often centered around the remains of earlier fortifications.

The three primary components of a Greek city-state: the Acropolis (sacred site), the Agora (marketplace), and the urban fabric (residential and temple areas).

The colossal bronze statue of Athena Promachos stood opposite the Propylaea, dominating the entrance to the Acropolis.

A town plan with a grid system of streets running at right angles to each other, creating regular blocks.

A Greek architect famous for his town planning principles, including the orthogonal grid system.

A structure typical of Greek homes, often featuring a central room with a hearth and a roof supported by four columns.

The positioning of buildings and open spaces in a city or town plan.

A city in Turkey, known for its well-preserved orthogonal grid plan and ancient ruins, a prime example of a Greek colonial city.

A building designed for public meetings and discussions, typically housing the city council.

A system of government in ancient Greece, consisting of 500 members elected to represent the citizens.

A large, open-air public building in ancient Greece used for dramatic performances and religious rituals.

A form of theatrical production originating in ancient Greece, often featuring myths, gods, and morality.

A significant ancient Greek festival honoring the god Dionysus, featuring dramatic performances, songs, and revelry.

A large open-air stadium in ancient Greece, primarily used for athletic competitions and public gatherings.

A system of seating where rows are arranged in a tiered or sloping fashion, creating a gradual incline.

The Acropolis in Athens, Greece is a hilltop citadel that served as the city's religious and political center. Famous for its ancient temples, including the Parthenon.

The Erechtheion is a temple complex situated on the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. It is known for its distinctive architectural features, including six Caryatids.

The Caryatids are six sculpted female figures that serve as columns in the Erechtheion on the Acropolis. They are known for their graceful poses and draped garments.

The metopes are the square panels that decorate the frieze of the Parthenon. These sculptures, made of marble, depict scenes from Greek mythology, particularly the battle between the Greeks and the Amazons.

The Agora was a public space in ancient Athens. It was a bustling marketplace, a place for political debate, and a hub for social gatherings.

The contest between Athena and Poseidon for dominion over Athens is a well-known Greek myth. It is said to have taken place on the Acropolis, and the Erechtheion is built on the site of the contest. Poseidon is credited with creating the first horse, while Athena is credited with creating the first olive tree.

The ancient Greeks valued order and balance in their societies. The agora was a place where different functions and activities were organized in a way that reflected this belief.

The ancient Greeks viewed their victory over the Persians as a triumph of civilization over barbarism. The metopes on the Parthenon commemorate this victory and illustrate this conflict.

Greek temples were not designed for large gatherings, but instead functioned as sacred spaces dedicated to a specific god or goddess, housing a cult image and offerings.

Ceremonies in Greek temples primarily took place outside, in the open air, due to the mild climate. Even the altar for sacrifices was located outside the temple structure.

The number of columns used in a Greek temple directly reflected its grandeur and wealth, indicating the community's devotion and financial resources.

The Doric order, the oldest, was characterized by its sturdy, masculine proportions, reflecting the strength of a man. The Ionic order was lighter and more feminine, associated with the grace of a woman. Finally, the Corinthian order, with its ornate capital, represented the delicate beauty of a young maiden.

The Doric order originated in mainland Greece, while the Ionic order emerged on the islands of the Aegean Sea and the coast of Asia Minor. The Corinthian order appeared later and was a more developed variation.

The Greeks developed a highly stylized approach to architectural details, including columns, capitals, and the horizontal entablature that supported the roof. These elements were meticulously designed and decorated, reflecting their artistic mastery.

Over time, the original wooden columns in early Greek temples were replaced by stone columns for improved support and durability, influenced by Egyptian precedents and technology.

The transition from wooden to stone construction in Greek temples was influenced by both ancient Egyptian precedents and technological advancements of the Greeks, leading to a more robust and enduring architecture.