From the Greeks to the Gothic

 A great deal of Architecture we see today extends from what the Greeks had implemented, some of my favourite pieces of Architecture are either original ancient Greek structures and features, or have been inspired by it. 

When first considering Greek Architecture it is important to consider that these were developing times, with the Greeks at the forefront of philosophy and discovery with Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Heraclitus and Pythagoras laying the new foundations of modern thought. We also see the emergence of governing and civil order not only under the Greeks but also the Roman Empire, this was a huge progression which is copied in modern day and followed in order to create Democracy and order. As well as this Romans kept in power by keeping the peasants fed and entertaining them particularly with the introduction of circuses, which once more is minorly implemented in modern day, particularly with benefit systems which keep the struggling from suffering and giving them a platform to work from, and making sure no one goes hungry.

 When shifting onto the Byzantine Empire which stemmed from the Roman Empire, it tended to combine that of the Greeks and of the Roman Empire, as well as adding its own features. Due to the large Empire they had and the aim to spread Christian traditions across their African and European Empire, it created a great deal development regarding beautiful large Churches. It included a large continuation of pillars which is still a very key element at this time in particular, as well as the introduction of an array of domes, which adds a new aesthetic to the structures.

The perfect example of Gothic Architecture is shown by Notre Dame, a stunning system of spires built between 1163 and 1250, however it was sadly burned down in 2019, largely due to the wooden supports and structures. This is a fine example of all the small details of a structure, particularly churches and cathedrals, that create a grand design and finish which has extreme aesthetic.