Architecture

Greek

Building in ancient Greece were built to show importance. The temples were created with intentional proportions and formal elegance.
Even now, architects continue to model certain buildings off of Greek ancient temples. Examples of such buildings are Museums, government buildings such as court houses, and other structures that are designed to show elegance, importance, and to some extent intimidation. There is a certain allure and powerful energy that such designs express. Such forms of architecture are also symbols of democratic ideals.

The Greeks developed three architectural systems, called orders, each with their own distinctive proportions and detailing. The Greek orders are: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

Doric   The Doric style is rather sturdy and its top (the capital), is plain. This style was used in mainland Greece and the colonies in southern Italy and Sicily.

Ionic The Ionic style is thinner and more elegant. Its capital is decorated with a scroll-like design (a volute). This style was found in eastern Greece and the islands.

Corinthian The Corinthian style is seldom used in the Greek world, but often seen on Roman temples. Its capital is very elaborate and decorated with acanthus leaves.

Info from http://www.ancientgreece.com/s/Art/

Examples of Greek buildings:

Parthenon

The most famous of ancient Greek temples, the Parthenon still stands today. Millions of dollars have been spent in trying to restore this glorious structure to exactly the way it once stood. A tribute to Athena (the patron goddess), the temple has served many purposes throughout time, such as a military fortress, church, and mosque.


Temple of Athena




The temple of Athena was the first ionic-styled temple to be built on the acropolis. It was smaller in size then the parthenon and was built so that people could worship the goddess of victory, Athena. 

Roman

Roman architecture was fairly similar to that of ancient Greece. They used columns and arches to create massive temples and buildings, which stood tall to represent the power and influence of Rome. The use of cement was also common place, making buildings far more durable then ages past.

Examples of Roman buildings:

Pantheon

The Pantheon was a strategically built structure which has a massive dome ceiling. Vaulted ceilings, arches, and concrete were used to allow the Pantheon to stand for centuries. It is just one of the many marvels of the ancient era that still stands today.

Colosseum

Perhaps the most renown of ancient Roman buildings, the Colosseum, is currently one of the most common tourist attractions. During ancient times it was the equivalent of what we would call a sports stadium, hosting entertainment for spectators, such as fights to the death, and ship battles (they would flood the building).