Capitol Architecture: Greek Revival Style
The State Capitol is built in Greek Revival style architecture. This style was very popular in America during the 1830s and 1840s when the Capitol was being built. Americans wanted to mimic or copy the architecture of the Greeks because they admired the Grecian form of democracy. Greek Revival architecture emphasizes simplicity and symmetry. Pictured below are several architectural features which characterize Greek Revival architecture. When you visit the Capitol, look for these features on the exterior and interior of the building.
Type of Columns
Doric |
Ionic |
Corinthian |
Portico (Porch with columns)
Pediment (Section above columns)
Frieze (Ornamental part of the pediment)
Pilaster (a square or round column attached to a wall)
Dome with Anthemion Crown (Crown with flower design)
State Capitol Information
Features
Educational Resources
- Overview
- Introduction
- Background
- Capitol Vocabulary
- Puzzles
- Essays and Projects
- As You Listen
- Capitol Architecture
- Greek Revival Style
- As Time Goes By
- Flags Over the Capitol
- Additional Resources