Greek Architecture Overview

Greek Architecture

• Geography: Surrounded on three sides by the sea.
• Ancient Greece: Before Roman conquest.
• Present Greece: Modern Location.
• Geology: Marble was a common mineral resource found in the mountains of Hymettus and Pentelicus, and islands of Paros and Naxos. The country was also rich in silver, copper, and iron.
• Climate: Hot sun and heavy rains. Activity in the north contrasted with passivity in the east, contributing to the growth of a unique civilization. Northern Greece has cooler and wetter conditions, while Southern Greece is more arid.
• Social and Political Conditions:
  • Archaic Period: 1000-480 BC
  • Classical Period: Persians invaded Greece (480 BC), and the Golden Age (404 BC).
  • Alexander Era: 323 BC
  • Hellenistic Period: Romans conquered Greece (146 BC).
• Religion: Worship of natural phenomena.
• Architectural Character: The early Mycenaean period (also known as Pelasgic or primitive period) was characterized by cyclopean masonry. The Hellenic period followed the Mycenaean period. Buildings and sculptures were often decorated with colour and gilding.
• Classical Greek Orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders. Later Tuscan and composite orders were also introduced. Orders consist of the column, base, capital, and entablature (or part support).
• Masonry Types:
  • Cyclopean: Large, roughly hewn rocks piled together with clay mortar filling gaps.
  • Rectangular: Carefully hewn rectangular blocks arranged in regular courses; the joints between stones in a course are not always vertical.
  • Polygonal: Many-sided blocks accurately fitted together.
• Additional Features:
  • Corbels: Horizontal courses projecting beyond one another until the apex is reached.
  • Inclined Blocks: Inclined blocks forming triangular-headed openings.
  • Arches: Used in constructions.
• Hellenic Period: This period (stretching from 700 BC to 146 BC) featured many temples and monuments. Greek cities were often located on hills called Acropolis, acting as citadels, and important structures like temples were often built there. The Acropolis was constructed for a better view of enemy locations.

Explore the fascinating details of Greek architecture, including its geographical setting, historical periods, and the resources that influenced its development. This quiz delves into the social and political conditions that shaped ancient Greece, along with the unique religious practices that were reflected in their architectural style.