Classicism - architectural style definition

Classicism is an architectural style that originated in Europe in the 18th century and lasted until the end of the 19th century. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'klasis', meaning 'classic', which means perfection and perfect model. In classicism, adherence to the principles of proportion and harmony is paramount, which is evident in the simple and regular forms of buildings.

Classicism is also characterised by the use of columns, which are an integral part of this style. Columns can be Doric, Ionic or Corinthian, and their bases and heads are decorated with floral patterns and motifs. Classicism also makes use of sculptures, reliefs and other decorations that are a reference to ancient Greece and Rome.

Buildings in classicism are usually symmetrical, meaning that the left and right sides are identical. This style also features elements such as porticoes, balustrades, balconies, loggias or attics.

Classicism is a style that is valued for its elegance and stateliness. Buildings in this style are often used as public buildings such as museums, theatres, libraries or town halls. In Poland, classicism was popular in the 1830s and was associated with the reign of King Stanisław August Poniatowski. Buildings such as the Branicki Palace in Bialystok and the Kazimierzowski Palace in Warsaw were built at that time.

Classicism is a style that never goes out of fashion and is still very popular. Its elegance and stateliness make buildings in this style prized by architects and art lovers.

Classicism is an architectural style inspired by the classical models of ancient Greece and Rome. It emerged in the 18th century as a reaction to Rococo and Baroque excess of ornamentation and decoration. The style is characterised by simple lines, symmetry, harmony of proportion and moderate use of ornamentation.

Precursors

The precursors of classicism were the French scholar Marc-Antoine Laugier and the Scottish architect Robert Adam. Laugier, in his 1753 work 'Treatise on the Elements of Architecture', presented the ideas of simplicity, symmetry and naturalness as fundamental principles of architecture. Robert Adam, on the other hand, active in the second half of the 18th century, played an important role in popularising classicism in Britain.

Most popular buildings

These include many monuments, palaces, museums and public edifices around the world. Here are some of them:

Buckingham Palace in London, UK: A symbol of the British monarchy, it was designed in the classical style by architect John Nash.

Capitol Building in Washington DC, USA: The main legislative building of the United States, designed by architect William Thornton, follows classical Roman patterns.

Louvre in Paris, France: One of the largest and most important museums in the world, built in the classical style. Part of the building, known as the Denon Wing, was designed by architect Pierre Lescot.

Acropolis in Athens, Greece: The complex of ancient temples, including the famous Parthenon, is an excellent example of classical Greek architecture.

Arc de Triomphe in Paris - This is a structure built of stone to celebrate Napoleon's victory in the war against Austria in 1805. The Arc de Triomphe is 50 metres high and 45 metres wide and is decorated with columns and sculptures depicting scenes from Napoleon's wars.

La Scala Theatre in Milan, Italy: One of the most important opera theatres in the world, built in the classicist style by architect Giuseppe Piermarini.

These are just a few examples of buildings in the classicist style. This architectural style was very popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and remains the inspiration for many contemporary designs.