Classical Period: Greece - Greek Temples
The temples of ancient Greece represent the pinnacle of Classical architecture, blending functionality, religious significance, and aesthetic principles. They served as homes for deities and as centers for religious activities, embodying the Greek ideals of geometry, symmetry, and harmony.
1. Evolution of the Greek Temple
Early Temples:
Began as simple structures of wood and mud-brick, later replaced by stone (limestone, marble) for durability and grandeur.
Initial rectangular designs with a single room (naos or cella) evolved into more complex layouts with additional elements like porches (pronaos) and colonnades.
Archaic Period:
Introduction of the Doric and Ionic orders.
Increased emphasis on external appearance, with decorative pediments and friezes.
Classical Period:
Refined proportions and symmetry.
Temples became larger, more ornate, and better integrated with their surroundings.
2. Classification of Greek Temples
Based on Plan:
In-Antis: Temples with columns between the antae (extended walls of the naos).
Prostyle: Columns in front of the naos but not on the sides or rear.
Amphiprostyle: Columns on both the front and rear facades.
Peripteral: Surrounded by a single row of columns (e.g., Parthenon).
Dipteral: Surrounded by a double row of columns.
Based on Function:
Peripteral Temples: Temples like the Parthenon dedicated to major deities.
Treasuries: Small temple-like structures used to house offerings and treasures.
3. Case Studies
Parthenon (447-432 BCE)
Location: Acropolis, Athens.
Dedication: Athena Parthenos (Athena the Virgin).
Architects: Iktinos and Kallikrates; sculptor Phidias.
Key Features:
Doric peripteral temple with 8 columns on the shorter sides and 17 on the longer sides.
Incorporates Ionic elements (e.g., the frieze around the inner building).
Famous for its optical refinements:
Columns exhibit entasis (slight swelling) to counteract visual distortions.
Stylobate and entablature are subtly curved upwards.
Intricate sculptural decorations on pediments, metopes, and the continuous frieze.
Erechtheion (421-406 BCE)
Location: Acropolis, Athens.
Dedication: Multiple gods, including Athena and Poseidon.
Architect: Possibly Mnesikles.
Key Features:
Asymmetrical design due to the uneven terrain and multiple cultic functions.
Incorporates Ionic order with slender columns and ornate capitals.
Features the Porch of the Caryatids, where sculpted female figures replace columns.
Innovative layout with different floor levels to accommodate site conditions.
4. Geometry and Symmetry
Greek temples reflect mathematical precision in their proportions:
Golden Ratio: Used to create harmonious relationships between parts of the temple.
Columns, entablature, and base proportions were carefully calculated for balance.
Use of symmetry in both the individual building and its relationship with the site.
Central Axis: Most temples are designed with a central axis for visual alignment.
Columns and spacing reflect uniformity while adjusting for visual distortions.
5. Relationship with Other Buildings and Site
Acropolis of Athens:
The Parthenon and Erechtheion are positioned to interact visually and symbolically with each other.
The spatial arrangement responds to the natural topography, creating a dramatic and cohesive composition.
The Propylaea (gateway) acts as a transitional element, framing views of the Parthenon and Erechtheion.
Organizing Principles:
Topography: Temples were adapted to site conditions, as seen in the multi-level Erechtheion.
Processional Routes: Temples were often aligned along sacred paths, guiding worshippers and emphasizing their importance.
Axiality and Orientation: Many temples were oriented east-west, aligning with celestial events and religious rituals.
Conclusion
Greek temples epitomize the Classical ideals of proportion, harmony, and integration with the environment. The Parthenon and Erechtheion are prime examples of how geometry and site conditions influenced architectural design, creating enduring monuments of cultural and artistic significance.
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