Greek Revival Style

Architecture Greek Revival Style

In the early 1800s, archaeologists, scientists who study items left behind by ancient peoples to determine how they lived, were studying the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome. Americans greatly admired the culture of these ancient peoples, and so they tried to copy their style of government and architecture. Greek Revival is a style of architecture very similar to the style used by the Greeks. From 1833 to 1840, North Carolina builders constructed the State Capitol building, one of the finest examples of Greek Revival public architecture in America.

Special features that identify the Greek Revival style of architecture are described below. Match the definition with the number on this drawing of the Capitol.

Drawing of the Capitol
  1. Anthemion (crown) - ornament based on the honeysuckle flower and leaves.
  2. Column - a vertical supporting pillar.
  3. Dome - a large circular roof or ceiling.
  4. Frieze - a horizontal band of decoration at the top of a room, building, or mantel.
  5. Pediment - a triangular space forming the gable of a roof.
  6. Pilaster - a shallow rectangular column that projects only partially from the wall.
  7. Portico - a roof supported by columns, forming a porch or a covered walk.

Return to top of page

Return to the State Capitol home page