Neoclassical Art and Architecture in Spain and France

An architectural style that draws inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman architecture.

The Propileos of Munich is a neoclassical building modeled after the monumental entrance to the Acropolis in Athens, Greece.

A prominent architectural feature in the Propileos of Munich, the Doric order is characterized by its simple and sturdy columns and lack of ornamentation. It's a key element in ancient Greek temples.

Leo von Klenze, a prominent German architect, designed the Propileos of Munich, a neoclassical structure in Munich.

Another architectural style borrowed from the ancient Greeks and Romans, the use of straight lines and simple fronts is a characteristic of neoclassical architecture.

Ventura Rodríguez was a Spanish architect who primarily worked in the Baroque style, but towards the end of his career he embraced the neoclassical style. His most notable neoclassical work is the facade of the Pamplona Cathedral.

King Charles III's reign saw a significant rise in neoclassical architecture in Spain. He commissioned Francesco Sabatini to create notable public works like the Puerta de Alcalá, a monumental entrance to Madrid inspired by Roman triumphal arches.

A prominent neoclassical architect trained in the Academy of Fine Arts, Juan de Villanueva spent time in Italy and then created the Prado Museum in Madrid. The museum features a central portico with columns and a large attic, along with galleries with different architectural elements.

Juan de Villanueva's Astronomical Observatory in Madrid is another significant neoclassical work. It features a Greek cross plan with a circular temple topped with an Ionic colonnade, inspired by Palladio's architectural designs.

Italian architects played a key role in bringing the neoclassical language to Spain, where the Baroque style was dominant. Their influence paved the way for the adoption of neoclassical architecture in the country.

A crucial feature of Neoclassical architecture, the frontons are triangular sections above the columns, often adorned with sculptures and reliefs.

The key architectural orders used in Neoclassical buildings, drawing from ancient Roman and Greek designs, with specific column styles and proportions.

A significant element in Neoclassical architecture, the dome is a rounded roof structure, often a large, impressive feature at the center of a building.

A striking and prominent feature of Neoclassical buildings, the portico refers to a covered walkway or entrance with a series of columns supporting a roof.

A prominent example of a Neoclassical building in France, the church of Ste. Geneviève (later known as the Pantheon), designed with a Greek cross plan, a grand interior colonnade, and a dome.

A prominent Neoclassical landmark in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe, designed by Jean Chalgrin, featuring a single arch, intricate reliefs, and a commemoration of Napoleon's victories.

A Neoclassical style building in Germany, reflecting the influence of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by the use of straight lines, frontons, and a sense of architectural purity.