Maison Carrée: Architectural History and Roman Significance

Maison Carrée

Context

Constructed under the order of Agrippa, the Maison Carrée was built during a period of significant expansion for the Roman Empire. Agrippa, who held a high-ranking position, was responsible for major infrastructure projects, including roads and public buildings, to solidify the reach of the Empire.

Formal Description

The structure is a rectangular pseudoperipteral temple featuring a hexastyle design with six 17-meter-tall Corinthian columns. Key architectural features include:

• Podium: Elevated base showing strong Etruscan influence.
• Entrance: A single access point via a grand porch staircase on the main facade.
• Entablature: Formed by a triple architrave.
• Frieze: Decorated with intricate plant motifs.
• Pediment: A triangular structure, currently lacking original ornamentation.
• Cell: A single, undivided interior space dedicated to sacred use.
• Exterior: Features 20 attached columns along the sides.

Meaning and Function

The temple served a dual religious and commemorative purpose. Agrippa dedicated the building to the gods of Rome, as well as to Gaius and Lucius Caesar, the grandsons of Emperor Augustus, to honor the imperial family. Throughout the Middle Ages, the building was converted into a church, and it currently serves as an ancient art museum.

Models and Influences

The Maison Carrée represents a synthesis of architectural traditions:

• Greek Influence: Adopted the rectangular plan and classical architectural orders.
• Etruscan Influence: Utilized the elevated podium and emphasized the main facade through a prominent portico and staircase.

Unlike Greek temples, which were designed to be viewed from all sides, Roman temples like the Maison Carrée were designed to be viewed primarily from the front. During the reign of Augustus, the Corinthian order became the standard for structural support, while Ionic and Doric orders were relegated to decorative roles. The temple's design influenced later works, such as the Ara Pacis, and its emphasis on the portico and Corinthian columns had a profound impact on Renaissance architecture, notably seen in the Madeleine in Paris.