Prehistoric Architecture: Styles and Influences
45 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Long chamber graves are associated with which cultural practice?

  • Collective tomb burials. (correct)
  • Individual cremation ceremonies.
  • Elevated platforms for sky burials.
  • Nomadic settlements with temporary markers.

What is a key characteristic of gallery graves?

  • Elaborate entrances facing east.
  • Small, round entrances and linings of large stone slabs. (correct)
  • Absence of any structural support, relying solely on earthen mounds.
  • Construction primarily using wooden beams.

The representations on the rock walls of gallery graves suggest an association with what?

  • Deities or spiritual entities. (correct)
  • Genealogical lineages of prominent families.
  • Records of trade routes and economic activities.
  • Astronomical events and predictions.

What is the literal meaning of 'menhir' in Brittany French?

<p>Long stone. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a typical placement for a menhir?

<p>Standing in a field or arranged in rows. (E)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate age range of the megaliths found in Carnac?

<p>5000 to 1000 BCE (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The name 'Carnac' likely originates from a medieval English term meaning what?

<p>Pile of stones. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the expression 'taol maen' mean, from which the word 'dolmen' originates?

<p>Stone table (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary factor enabled the construction of more robust structures as human settlements expanded?

<p>Enhanced cooperation and task division among communities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the main purpose of the circular stone structures that began to appear across Europe around 3700 BCE?

<p>Ceremonial functions, often as permanent tombs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the burial chambers of Newgrange in Ireland, dating back to 3000 BCE?

<p>An elaborate system of passage graves with burial chambers made of large, vertically placed rocks covered with smaller rocks and dirt. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What geometric designs were commonly found on the construction rocks of prehistoric structures like Newgrange?

<p>Abstract geometric designs of circles and spirals. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might have inspired Neolithic structures like Stonehenge, according to the text?

<p>Circular shapes such as the sun and the moon, or the cyclical nature of prehistoric life. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During which period did the Paleolithic Age occur?

<p>30,000 BCE-10,000 BCE (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary source of knowledge about Paleolithic human culture, given the absence of written records?

<p>Archaelogical evidence and ethnographic comparisons to modern hunter-gatherer cultures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What development marked the end of the Paleolithic Age?

<p>The adoption of farming and the use of metals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is most indicative of the Dolni Vestonice structure?

<p>Wood framework covered with skins held by mammoth bones. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What construction method was employed in the Mezhirich structure?

<p>Using mammoth jaws and long bones for the foundation wall. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these features is associated with Lean-tos in prehistoric architecture?

<p>Defined base by stones with skin curtain and roof draped over posts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Paved interiors and skirts weighed down with pebbles are features most characteristic of which type of prehistoric structure?

<p>Tents (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining construction characteristic of prehistoric Pit Houses?

<p>Shallow depressions in the ground surrounded by mammoth bones. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A structure consists of a foundation of mammoth jaws and long bones, roofed with tree branches overlaid by tusks. Which prehistoric dwelling is being described?

<p>Mezhirich (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the inhabitants of prehistoric tents ensure the stability of their shelters?

<p>By weighing down the skirts with pebbles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Dolni Vestonice structure from other prehistoric dwellings?

<p>Its use of mammoth bones to hold up a wood framework covered with skins. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary function was a dolmen believed to serve in prehistoric societies?

<p>A grave or altar for deities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is associated with dolmens?

<p>Arranged in sequential layouts resembling corridors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the literal meaning of 'trilith,' as found in Stonehenge, and what does it describe?

<p>'Three stones,' referring to structures composed of two upright stones supporting a third (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is the alignment of the horseshoe-shaped stone arrangement within Stonehenge significant?

<p>It aligns with the sunrise on the longest day of the year. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is notable about Stonehenge compared to other megalithic sites in Europe?

<p>It is the best-preserved megalithic site. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'cromlech' refer to in the context of megalithic structures?

<p>An alternative name for dolmens (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Across which period of time were the three phases of construction at Stonehenge carried out?

<p>1,500 years (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary significance of the altar stone found in the center of Stonehenge?

<p>It likely held spiritual importance within the site. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary structural characteristic of the outer circle in the prehistoric open-air ritual structure described?

<p>Use of post-and-lintel construction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The inner altar area of the described prehistoric structure is characterized by what arrangement of structural elements?

<p>A horseshoe shape made of post-and-lintel structures. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What astronomical event is aligned with the axis that runs through the center of the prehistoric structure?

<p>The summer solstice. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the overall layout of the prehistoric ritual structures?

<p>Concentric circles with a central altar. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of Paleolithic architecture?

<p>Adaptation to nomadic lifestyles with temporary structures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the shift from the Paleolithic to the Neolithic period influence architectural developments?

<p>It spurred the development of settled agriculture and permanent building construction. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant technological advancement marks the end of the Stone Age and the beginning of the Bronze Age?

<p>The smelting of ore. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a hypothetical prehistoric structure. Which of these features would suggest a Mesolithic origin rather than Paleolithic?

<p>The presence of a semi-permanent settlement showing seasonal occupation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is bronze, the metal that defines the Bronze Age, primarily composed of?

<p>Copper and tin or copper and arsenic. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the availability of materials impact architectural design during prehistoric times?

<p>It dictated the style and form of structures, as builders relied on locally sourced resources. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term is used to describe the transitional period when copper smelting was known, but bronze was not yet manufactured?

<p>Chalcolithic (or Eneolithic) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Arrange the following technological periods in correct chronological order: Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Chalcolithic.

<p>Stone Age, Chalcolithic, Bronze Age, Iron Age (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine you are an archaeologist excavating a prehistoric site. What evidence would lead you to believe that the inhabitants had developed a sense of community and social organization through their architecture?

<p>Uniform dwelling construction and communal spaces. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Post-and-lintel system

An architectural system using horizontal beams supported by vertical posts.

Newgrange

A prehistoric stone structure in Ireland dating back to 3000 BCE, serving as a burial site.

Geometric forms in architecture

Simple shapes used in prehistoric architecture, seen in stones and designs.

Stonehenge

Famous Neolithic stone structure in England, possibly linked to celestial cycles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Neolithic architecture

Architectural style employing stone structures, often for ceremonial purposes.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Paleolithic Age

Period from 30,000 BCE to 10,000 BCE known for early human creativity and culture.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ceremonial structures

Buildings used for rituals, often made of stone, from prehistoric times.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Megalithic structures

Large stone constructions, often with cultural or religious significance.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Dolni Vestonice

Structure with an oval shape (16m x 10m) using mammoth bones and limestone.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mezhirich

Construction featuring foundation wall made of mammoth jaws and roofed with tree branches and tusks.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lean Tos

A structure built against a cave wall defined by stones, with a skin curtain.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Tents

Shelters with skirts secured by pebbles, featuring open air hearths and wooden posts.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Pit Houses

Common in Eastern Europe, oval-shaped structures with mammoth bones, indicating roofs.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mesolithic Period

Also known as the Middle Stone Age, spanning around 10,000-8,000 B.C.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Hearts in Architecture

Central hearths used within prehistoric structures for warmth and cooking.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mammoth Bones in Architecture

Used as a primary construction material in prehistoric buildings.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gallery Grave

A long chamber grave linked to collective burials in Europe during the Stone Age.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Menhir

A tall, vertical stone often found alone or in rows, primarily in fields.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Carnac Megaliths

The largest collection of megaliths in the world, located in France, over 3,000 stones.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Dolmen

A structure with two large upright stones supporting a flat horizontal stone, known as a 'stone table'.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Megalith

A large stone used in prehistoric monuments, like menhirs or dolmens.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Cairn

A pile of stones used as a landmark or memorial site, related to the word Carnac.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Stone Age

A prehistoric period characterized by the use of stone tools and construction of monuments like dolmens.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Monolith

A large single upright block of stone, often part of larger structures like dolmens or menhirs.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Paleolithic Architecture

Early architectural forms built during the Paleolithic period, often simple and functional.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Neolithic Economy

System based on agriculture and domestication during the Neolithic period, moving beyond hunting.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Structured Art

Artwork created in prehistoric times that reflects cultural beliefs and practices.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Prehistoric Art

Art developed by prehistoric humans, often found in caves or on stones.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Outer Circle Structure

A series of post-and-lintel structures forming a ring around an inner area.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Altar in Prehistoric Architecture

A central feature in structures, often surrounded by ceremonial spaces.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Trilithon

A structure consisting of two vertical stones topped by a horizontal stone.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Summer Solstice Alignment

Structures designed to align with the sun during the summer solstice.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Copper Age

The transitional period between the Stone Age and Bronze Age, where copper was first smelted.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Chalcolithic Period

Another name for the Copper Age, emphasizing the use of copper tools.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Innovation of Smelting

The process of extracting metal from ore, marking the end of the Stone Age.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Transition to the Bronze Age

The period signaling the shift from primitive stone tools to bronze manufacturing.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Cromlech

Another term for dolmen, originating from Brythonic language, often used in ceremonial contexts.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Stonehenge phases

Stonehenge was constructed in three main phases spanning 1,500 years, each with distinct features.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Inner Circle of Stonehenge

An arrangement of stones in a horseshoe shape within Stonehenge, aligning with the sun's rise.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Altar Stone

A central stone at Stonehenge believed to have spiritual significance, surrounded by other stones.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Megalithic site

A site featuring large stones, significant for prehistoric rituals and constructions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Sun's alignment

The phenomenon where the sun's rays shine directly into the central axis of Stonehenge at sunrise.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Introduction

  • Architecture is a record of human effort to build beautifully, tracing the origin, growth, and decline of styles.
  • Historic styles are particular methods, characteristics, and design manners prevalent at a certain time and place.
  • Six influences on architecture include geographical, geological, climatic, religious, social, and historical factors.

Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic Periods and Architectural Type

  • Prehistoric architecture predates written history, encompassing the Old Stone Age, Middle Stone Age, and New Stone Age.
  • Early humans used caves and temporary shelters for protection from weather and enemies.

Prehistoric Housing Materials

  • As settlements grew, so did the need for more sturdy structures.
  • Timber, often with a post-and-lintel system was commonly used.

Prehistoric Stone Structures

  • Stone ceremonial structures (e.g., Newgrange in Ireland) appeared around 3700 BCE.
  • These structures often served as tombs.
  • Geometric forms and designs were evident.

Dwellings and Shelters

  • Early humans selected locations for protection from weather and predators.
  • Locations near water sources (rivers, lakes, and streams) were common.
  • Common shelters included caves, temporary wood huts, and structures made of wood, straw, and rock.

Caves

  • Caves were among the most famous Paleolithic shelters.
  • Though commonly used, not all hominids lived in caves.

Tents and Huts

  • These structures were more temporary and frequently used for campsites.
  • Examples include shelters constructed from mammoth bones or other natural materials.

Huts

  • Oval-shaped huts (8-15m x 4-6m) were built near seashores.
  • Built using stakes supported with stones.

Molodova

  • Features a more sophisticated design, such as a wooden framework covered with hides and oval mammoth bones.

Dolni Vestonice

  • Made of mammoth bones and tusks, set into the ground.

Lean-tos

  • Structures created against a cave wall.
  • Defined at its base by stones, with skin curtains and roofs draped over posts.
  • Could have two compartments.

Tents

  • Shaped as skirts weighed down with pebbles.
  • Paved, open-air hearths.
  • Wooden posts, driven into the earth and covered with skins, secured by reindeer antlers.

Pit Houses

  • Oval pits, 6m-9m long and 2.5m wide.
  • Roofed with timber.
  • Stone hearths used as working surfaces.

Dry Stone Houses

  • Stone-built houses with 3m thick cavity walls.
  • Inner and outer walls constructed from dry stones.
  • Rectangular plan with circular corners and thatched roofs.

Monuments

  • Settlements led to the construction of monumental stone architecture, such as Passage Graves and Gallery Graves.

Collective Tombs

  • Passage Graves featured long passages leading to burial chambers, lined with large stone slabs.
  • Megalithic structures (e.g., Menhirs) served as burial features or possibly as altars.

Dolmens

  • Structures made of two or more upright stones supporting a large horizontal stone at the top.
  • Often associated with burial practices.

Henges

  • Stone arrangements in concentric circles, like Stonehenge, were built and rebuilt over 1,500 years.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

MODULE 1 Pre-Historic Architecture PDF

Description

Explore prehistoric architecture, tracing human efforts to build. Learn about the evolution of styles, influences like geography and climate, and early structures from the Paleolithic to Neolithic periods. Discover the use of timber and stone in prehistoric housing and ceremonial structures.

More Like This

Plate 1 – Prehistoric Architecture
2 questions

Plate 1 – Prehistoric Architecture

LikeVampire avatar
LikeVampire
Prehistoric Architecture Overview
10 questions

Prehistoric Architecture Overview

IntuitiveHarpGuitar avatar
IntuitiveHarpGuitar
Prehistoric Architecture Quiz
45 questions

Prehistoric Architecture Quiz

EndorsedJasper689 avatar
EndorsedJasper689
Prehistoric Architecture Overview
60 questions

Prehistoric Architecture Overview

DeadOnChalcedony3277 avatar
DeadOnChalcedony3277
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser