Architectural Orders

There are three basic orders (or types) of columns in classical architecture.   The Doric and Ionic columns date from the 5th century BC in Greece. Both are represented on the Acropolis in Athens. The Corinthian column appeared in 4th century BC but the design was considered too ornate for the restrained Greeks. The Corinthian column had to wait for the Romans to use it with flourish. These classical forms have inspired artisans and designers from the mid-1700's through to the present day. 

Doric

Ionic

Corinthian

Athens Acropolis

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Classical Orders of Architecture