Parthenon & Maison Carrée: Ancient Greek Temples

Parthenon: An Architectural Marvel

I observe the front, main elevation, facade, or side elevations of a structure. The primary material used in this construction is marble. A significant portion of the outer space is visible, along with a part of the building's interior. The structure rests upon a base (crepidoma) with steps (crepis) extending along its entire perimeter.

Structural Elements

The load-bearing elements include walls and columns. Where visible, the wall presents meticulously matched stones, indicating a regular ashlar construction. The columns do not directly rest on the stylobate. The shaft features sharp edges or ridges, separated by grooves. The capital comprises an abacus, echinus, and collarino.

Supporting elements include the lintel and entablature, along with remnants of a gabled roof. The entablature consists of a plain architrave. The frieze is composed of triglyphs and alternating metopes decorated with reliefs, both crowned by a cornice. Atop the cornice, remnants of a two-sloped roof (à deux eaux) form a triangular pediment, the inner surface of which is called the tympanum (often adorned with sculptures).

Conclusion

Based on these observations, I can conclude that this is a Greek temple, specifically a peripteral, octastyle, Doric structure. Built by Ictinus and Callicrates, it is the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena Parthenos. Constructed from marble in the 5th century BC, its construction spanned 15 years.

Maison Carrée: A Corinthian Masterpiece

I see the front or main elevation of a facade or side elevations of a structure. The material used for this construction appears to be stone or marble. A significant portion of the exterior space is visible, along with a small part of the interior. The structure is elevated on a podium with steps only at the front or main elevation.

Structural Elements

The load-bearing elements include walls and columns. The wall is constructed from regularly arranged pieces, known as blocks (regular ashlar masonry). This enclosure has only one opening, the main entrance, signifying a predominance of solid wall over void. The building features columns that almost entirely surround it; these include both free-standing columns and columns engaged within the wall.

Supporting elements include the entablature and a roof. The entablature consists of an architrave, a frieze featuring continuous reliefs, and a cornice that overhangs the architrave and frieze. Above the cornice, the interior area, known as the tympanum, indicates an adjoined structure.

Conclusion

Based on these observations, I conclude that this is a *Roman* temple, specifically a peripteral hexastyle structure of the Corinthian order. Built in Nîmes (around 16 BC), it is known as the Maison Carrée.