The Oldest Classical Architectural Style: Doric Order

What is the oldest Classical architectural style known for its simplicity and sturdiness?

A) Corinthian B) Doric C) Ionic D) Tuscan

Answer:

The Doric order is the oldest Classical architectural style, known for its simple, sturdy columns without bases, fluted shafts, and a frieze of triglyphs and metopes.

The Doric order is the earliest of the Classical orders of architecture, identified by its plain, unadorned column capital and a column that rests directly on the stylobate without a base. The columns are fluted with typically 20 parallel grooves that taper to a sharp point at the top. The Doric entablature is marked by a frieze that includes triglyphs (vertical plaques with three divisions) and metopes (square spaces that held painted or sculpted decoration), which are characteristic features reminiscent of earlier wooden structures.

The most renowned example of the Doric order is the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens, designed by Iktinos and Kallikrates. The Doric style is associated with the architecture of mainland Greece and is known for its strong, sturdy proportions and a sense of simplicity and power.