The most prominent aspect of ancient Greek architecture are the well-known columns. Many refer to them as the Three Orders. However, there were only two original orders (Doric and Ionian) during the Classical Period of Greek history. It wasn't until the Hellenistic Period (about 331 BC to 23 BC) that a third order came into existence called the Corinthian Order.
| Orders | Doric | Ionian | Corinthian |
|---|---|---|---|
| Characteristics | Had no base; had capitals; closely spaced; thick; plain in decoration | Had bases and capitals; spaced farther apart; slender than Doric; more decorated; | Most ornamental and elaborate; equipped with bases and capitals |
| Examples | Temple of Apollo at Corinth | Temple of Erechtheum at Athens | Gymnasia and Senate houses |
Guess which type of columns are used on the famous Greek
structure, the Parthenon: