Prostyle is an architectural term that refers to a type of ancient Greek or Roman temple characterized by a row of columns extending across the front facade of the building. This style represents the simplest and most common form of Greek temple architecture. In a prostyle temple, the columns are typically positioned directly in front of the cella, which is the main enclosed space of the temple housing the cult statue. The roof of the porch formed by these columns is usually sloped, forming a pediment. Prostyle temples often feature a stylobate, a platform upon which the columns stand. The columns themselves are usually of the Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian order, each with its distinctive capital style and proportions. The prostyle arrangement creates a transitional space between the exterior and the interior of the temple, providing a sense of grandeur and solemnity upon approach. This design also serves practical functions, offering shelter from the elements and a gathering space for worshippers. The prostyle form was adopted and adapted by the Romans, who incorporated it into their own temple architecture. The influence of the prostyle design can be seen in various Neo-Classical and Greek Revival buildings, where the use of a front row of columns became a defining feature.
architecture, classical, columns, facade, Greek, pediment, portico, temple
Prostyle is a term used in architecture to describe a style that features a row of columns supporting a pediment, lintel, or entablature. This style originated in Ancient Greece and Rome and is characterized by the repetition of a single column type and the use of a colonnade to form a continuous sequence of columns around a building. The style is often found in temples, public buildings, and other monumental structures. Its use in domestic architecture, although rare, is also known. One aspect of Prostyle architecture that sets it apart from other styles is the emphasis on grandeur and power. The repetition of columns and the use of a continuous colonnade creates a sense of stability and strength, making Prostyle structures ideal for public buildings and other monumental structures. Another key aspect of Prostyle architecture is the use of decorative elements such as capitals and pediments. These elements are often highly ornate and serve to enhance the visual impact of the structure. The use of these elements is particularly evident in the temples of Ancient Greece and Rome, where they were used to create a sense of awe and reverence. In addition to its use in Ancient Greece and Rome, Prostyle architecture also experienced a resurgence during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. During this time, architects looked to the classical forms of architecture for inspiration, and the Prostyle style was adapted to create grand palaces and public buildings. Overall, Prostyle architecture is a style that emphasizes grandeur, power, and stability through the use of a continuous colonnade and highly ornate decorative elements. Its origins in Ancient Greece and Rome and its continued use throughout history make it an important style in the history of architecture.
architecture, Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, colonnade, decorative elements
The Prostyle refers to a classical architectural style that originated in Ancient Greece and Rome. It is characterized by the repetition of a single column type and the use of a colonnade to form a continuous sequence of columns around a building. The style is often found in temples, public buildings, and other monumental structures. Its use in domestic architecture, although rare, is also known. The Prostyle was later adopted by the Romans and is often seen in their public buildings, including the Pantheon in Rome. In the Renaissance, the Prostyle became popular again, particularly in Italy. This was due to the revival of the classical forms of architecture and its use in the Renaissance palaces of the Italian cities. The style was used in the Baroque period and in the 19th century, it was adapted to create monumental public buildings such as the Museo del Prado in Madrid and the Reichstag in Berlin.
Columns, colonnade, repetition, symmetry, temples.
The term Prostyle is used to describe a type of architectural structure in which a row of columns is used to support a pediment, lintel or entablature. This type of architecture is typically found in examples of Greek, Roman and Renaissance architecture. In general, the Prostyle structure is composed of a series of columns which are placed in parallel lines and arranged either in a single line or two lines with a central column. The columns are usually topped with a pediment or lintel. The columns can be plain or elaborate, depending on the design of the structure. The height of the columns determines the size of the structure, while the number of columns determines the amount of support required. A Prostyle structure is often seen as a representation of grandeur, power and stability.
Order, symmetry, balance, grandeur, stability.
Masonry architecture is a type of construction that utilizes stones, bricks and other materials to create structures. Prostyle is a term used to describe a type of masonry architecture which features a portico with a pediment and columns. This type of architectural style is typically seen in the construction of temples and other public buildings, as it allows for large entrance ways and impressive facades. The columns that support the portico are often fluted and include capitals, which are the decorative elements at the top. The columns and capitals are usually the same width, but the entablature, which is the decorative element between the columns and the roof, may vary in size and shape. The pediment is the triangular element at the top of the portico, which typically contains a window or a sculpture.
Classic, Classical, Symmetrical, Facade, Entablature
CITATION : "Shelly Stone. 'Prostyle.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=234830 (Accessed on July 03, 2025)"
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