How Greek Architecture Influenced the Later Italian Architects

Greek architecture had a significant influence on Italian architecture, especially during the Roman period. Here are a few key ways this impact is evident:

• Columns and Orders: The Greeks developed three architectural orders—Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian—each with distinct styles and proportions. Romans adopted these orders and incorporated them into their structures, with modifications that suited Roman engineering and aesthetics.
• Temples and Public Buildings: Greek temples, characterized by their grandeur and symmetry, inspired Roman temple design. The Romans often imitated Greek structures but incorporated features like the raised podium and the use of arches, which were less prominent in Greek architecture.
• City Planning: Greek urban design emphasized open public spaces, such as agoras (marketplaces), which informed Roman city planning. The Romans built upon this concept by incorporating forums, baths, and amphitheaters, creating a cohesive urban environment.
• Materials and Techniques: The Greeks utilized materials such as marble and limestone, which the Romans also embraced but advanced through the use of concrete. This innovation allowed for new architectural forms that expanded upon Greek designs.
• Symbolism and Aesthetics: Both Greek and Italian architecture embodied ideals of beauty and proportion, influencing the Renaissance revival of classical styles. Italian Renaissance architects like Bramante and Palladio looked back to Greek principles when designing churches and palaces.

Overall, the dialogue between Greek and Italian architecture emphasizes continuity and adaptation, where Roman architecture built upon Greek foundations to create its distinct identity.

On my recent trip to Sicily, we had the opportunity to visit The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and Villa Romana in the town of Casale. One was Greek and the other Roman, and we were able to see firsthand that the influence is evident.

The ancient Greek Valley of the Temples was built between 510 B.C. and 430 B.C. The archaeological park is located on the southern coast of Sicily, is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and boasts eight temples to the gods and a variety of other ruins.

At one time, Sicily was a Greek colony, and the Valley of the Temples now stands as one of the best preserved and largest Greek archaeological sites outside of Greece.

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