Colonnade

Definition

A colonnade is a row of columns supporting a roof or a series of arches, often used to create a walkway or a portico in ancient architecture. This architectural feature not only provides structural support but also adds an aesthetic quality to buildings, emphasizing symmetry and harmony. The use of colonnades was a significant innovation in ancient Greek architecture, allowing for the creation of grand and open spaces that were both functional and visually impressive.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Colonnades were prominently featured in major public buildings like temples, theaters, and agoras, serving both practical and decorative purposes.
2. The Parthenon in Athens showcases an iconic colonnade, demonstrating the use of the Doric order and its influence on Western architecture.
3. Colonnades provided shaded areas for gatherings and social interactions in public spaces, enhancing community engagement in ancient Greek society.
4. Innovations in colonnade design allowed for the development of more complex structures with wider spans and taller ceilings, influencing later architectural styles.
5. In addition to Greek architecture, the concept of colonnades was adopted and adapted by Roman builders, leading to new interpretations and uses in their monumental architecture.

Review Questions

• How did the design of colonnades influence the overall architectural style of ancient Greek buildings?
  • The design of colonnades significantly influenced ancient Greek architecture by emphasizing symmetry, proportion, and harmony. They created open and inviting spaces that enhanced public interaction while also serving structural purposes. The presence of colonnades allowed for elaborate facades and grandeur in temples and other public structures, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of Greek architecture.
• Compare the use of colonnades in Greek architecture to their application in Roman architecture, highlighting any key differences.
  • In Greek architecture, colonnades primarily served as supporting elements that enhanced the elegance of temples and public buildings, often using the Doric order. In contrast, Roman architecture expanded on this concept by incorporating various orders like Ionic and Corinthian, leading to more ornate and diverse designs. Romans also used colonnades more extensively in civic buildings such as basilicas and forums, reflecting their desire for monumental scale and grandeur.
• Evaluate the impact of colonnade innovations on later architectural movements throughout history.
  • Innovations in colonnade design had a lasting impact on subsequent architectural movements, particularly during the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods. Architects drew inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman structures that featured colonnades, adopting their principles to create grand public spaces that conveyed power and stability. This revival led to iconic structures such as the United States Capitol Building and many European cathedrals that showcase grand colonnades, demonstrating how these early innovations influenced modern architectural language and design.

Related terms

Portico: A covered entrance supported by columns, often leading to the main entrance of a building, commonly found in classical architecture.

Doric Order:

One of the classical orders of ancient Greek architecture, characterized by simple, sturdy columns and a plain capital.

Stoa: A covered walkway or portico that is typically lined with columns on one side and open on the other, used in ancient Greece for various public functions.