Architecture plays a prominent role in modern society. Ancient Greece has played an important role in shaping the western world. Its well-structured political system, literature, and art have influenced the western world for decades carrying into today. The most obvious area of influence has been the role of architecture. Today, this impact can be seen lurking within the facades of buildings in nearly every major city in the U.S. Many buildings are structured with what the Greeks referred to as the three main orders: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. These systems of structures were not only carefully thought out when constructing, but the purpose they serve and the way society interacts with it today is merely still the same. Sacred structures featured more of a medieval Gothic style. These architects are characterized by stained-glass windows,, tall spires, flying buttresses, turrets, and pointed arches. These arched churches and cathedrals provided strength and stability. Due to the vertical emphasis of these designs, the archways could be redesigned and stretched or pointed. Denver’s rich history showcases these marvelous structures and how they play into today’s society.
Medieval architects borrowed heavily from the construction of the Roman Empire. These structures can generally be divided into two types and two styles. The two types refer to the main purpose of the building, either religious or military, while the two styles, Romanesque and Gothic, were chronological developments.
When looking at the Church of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, the material it’s made of plays a huge factor. Constructed of rhyolite, this durable structure was built in the Gothic revival style with Romanesque features running through it. Attached to the church, the monastery shows the apse of the Shrine to Saint Francis which extends from the flat facade of the building and has a large external niche that contains a statue of Saint Francis of Assisi. Supported by columns and pilasters, this arched niche is attached to the outside of the building and has a gabled top.
The Church of St. Elizabeth of Hungary in some ways expresses a mood or distinctive character. In their everyday lives, some people have experienced guilt or deep emotional need and they pray to God for help and worship. Many church designs excite emotion and bring happiness. When walking into a Church like the one of St. Elizabeth, you feel more at peace and closer to God. Taking a look at the exterior of the church, a great rose window sits in the middle section of the facade high above the main entrance. This display gives off more of a welcoming feeling as you proceed inside. The interior contains great continuity of design and materials. It maintains the spirit and familiarity of many other churches but is glorified through careful detailing and quality materials. Upon entering the space one is immediately impacted by symmetry and alignment of critical components of worship and symbolism including the altar, tabernacle, and crucifix.
Designed by Father Adrian, OSF this church’s stained glass window decorations often express a story or tell a belief. These windows also help to add atmosphere to the building and allow light to wash over the symmetrical interior. The location of the church also plays a predominant role. Being downtown where a lot of people are present, the church provides a place away from the distractions of home and work where churchgoers can get together with other believers and feel a sense of belonging to one group, and give each other support.
Another architecture structure in Colorado that falls in line with ancient Greece architect is McNichols Civic Center Building. The building’s classic Greek-revival style is considered the contemporary hub for arts and culture for the people of Denver. This stunning Greek Revival building with its classic Corinthian columns and iconic colonnade across its front offers new experiences in a classic space. Being the largest building in the vicinity, this structure draws a lot of power and attention. Large spacious windows emphasize the horizontality of the building, allowing a lot of light to come in creating unique shadows and displays.
McNichols Civic Center Building brings people together. Its features accommodate people allowing a large spectrum of them to come together and enjoy what the building has to offer. The ramps in front of the structure are inviting of both the able-bodied and physically impaired. The entrance resembles that of the Greek amphitheater which can seat a large number of people outside while they enjoy shows and events. Being an art-driven building, this space showcases various moods and drives in people of all ethnicities. You don’t have to be an art enthusiast to enjoy this space as it does offer a multitude of events to accommodate park-goers.
With the exterior of the building, the architect achieves an effect of welcomeness with the design. The refined courtyard connects the building to the surrounding park and to its visitors. Space gives off a responsive feeling before the visitors even step a foot inside. Due to its large structure, this building engages the public and welcomes new visitors daily.
Constructed by architect Albert Ross, this Greek-revival building features elaborate corbels below the roofline and long, slender windows allowing a lot of light to come in. The symmetrical features and upright positions show the building’s dominance in the space. Large double wooden doors at the front entrance overshadow the visitors. All these features and design tactics used help make McNichols Civic Center Building a Denver landmark that allows people to gather and enjoy the environment and what it has to offer.
Greek architecture and artwork were unique and sophisticated in design. The Greek people were able to interact with these structures and artworks in a way that made life easier. The influences of Greek architecture a5re still present in modern-day society in various spectrums. The influences of ancient Greek architecture can be seen in governmental buildings in the United States as well as residential housing. Notable ways in which we still use Greek style include columns, friezes and decorative elements enhancing the structures. Greek culture has had a tremendous impact on the world, including the way the United States government buildings are structured. Greek architecture is one of the ways in which we still enjoy and imitate the Greek legacy.