How was the Roman architecture different from the Greek architecture?

Greek and Roman architecture have some similarities, but they do differ in some important ways. The Romans chose to make adaptations to their influences. Greek architecture has been quite influential and has historically inspired many architects today. Greek architecture was based on the post and lintel system which is simply a system made up of columns.

The Romans named five main architectural orders in their classical architecture: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan and Composite. But it was the Greek architects who formulated the first three and they also influenced the other two as well. Many believe that these were not really genuine innovations, rather they were composites.

Therefore, the difference is evidenced within the similarities between Greek and Roman architecture. The Greeks are known to be the initiators of these styles, but the Romans built on what already existed and improvised it to bring it to another level.

If you would check Roman and Greek architecture at first glance, you may not realize in the beginning that there are differences. The more that you look at the architecture that they have built, the more that you will begin to see some small signs.

The architecture of Romans was borrowed from the Greeks which explains why they are similar to each other. The main difference is the way that Romans love to use their arches. If you would look closely, the Roman architecture will have vaulted ceilings and lots of arches. The Greeks loved using Doric and Ionic columns but the Romans wanted something more ornate so they made use of Corinthian columns.

It seems that there are far more similarities between Roman architecture and Greek architecture than differences. However, there are some differences. Usually, they are hard to determine with the naked eye. The Greek architecture has certain column styles including Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. In Rome, you would see the buildings like churches as basilicas. Temples would also be seen there.

First came Greek architecture and then Roman architecture grew from that. Roman architecture was created in order to have social functions so that it would bring the Romans together in a central place like a market. Greeks used more columns whereas the Romans made arches in their doorways and outside of their structures. Romans used Corinthian styles in their buildings.

While Roman and Greek architecture certainly have their similarities, in some ways, they are completely different. Although there were five basic architectural orders used by both (Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite), each added their own cultural influences to make their creations unique. Greek architecture made such an impact on history, it has been used throughout the years and is still the inspiration of many architectural structures today. One of the most prevalent pieces used in Greek architect is columns. They are proportionately employed into the buildings to give them strength but also are oftentimes adorn artistically with carvings or other beautiful designs.

It was typical for Greeks to form the entablature from the corner triglyph to create an air of contrast. The Romans placed their own stamp on their architectural designs. They were known for implementing their own designs into coloums and straying from the Greek way of doing things such as forming the entablature from the corner triglyph. The Romans were a bit more imaginative and innovative, given less to follow the strict rules that the Greek did in their structures.

The Romans were the first to introduce the use of arches and domes and experimented with new materials and techniques. The Greek eventually followed their lead but added their own touches and guidelines to the work. The differences between Greek and Roman architect is quite different when taking into consideration the methods and ideals behind their work but they are also so similar, it takes a good eye to tell them apart even today.