Maison carrée

Definition

The maison carrée is a well-preserved Roman temple located in Nîmes, France, built around 16 B.C. It exemplifies the adaptation of Classical Greek architectural principles within Roman culture, showcasing a combination of Greek and local styles that influenced temple design throughout the Roman Empire. This structure serves as a prime example of how Roman architecture drew heavily from its Greek predecessors while also evolving its own distinctive features.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The maison carrée was dedicated to the worship of Augustus and the Roman imperial cult, reflecting the political power and religious devotion of the time.
2. Its design incorporates elements of the Corinthian order, highlighting the grandeur and decorative style favored in Roman architecture.
3. Unlike Greek temples which often had a more austere appearance, the maison carrée features a highly detailed façade and intricate sculptures.
4. The temple’s use of local materials in its construction demonstrates how Roman builders adapted their techniques to fit regional resources.
5. The maison carrée served as an influential model for later neoclassical buildings, particularly during the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods.

Review Questions

• How does the maison carrée exemplify the influence of Classical Greek art on Roman architecture?
  • The maison carrée showcases several elements borrowed from Classical Greek architecture, such as its rectangular shape, use of columns, and emphasis on symmetry. The structure employs the Corinthian order, which originates from Greek designs but was elaborated further by the Romans to create a more ornate appearance. This blend illustrates how Roman architects took inspiration from Greek principles while also adding their unique flair to build monumental structures that emphasized imperial power.
• In what ways did the architectural features of the maison carrée reflect the cultural and political climate of early Imperial Rome?
  • The architectural features of the maison carrée reflect early Imperial Rome's focus on grandeur and authority. Its dedication to Augustus symbolizes not only religious devotion but also political propaganda meant to legitimize his rule. The use of intricate designs and monumental scale reflects the wealth and power of Rome during this period, showcasing how architecture served as a tool for both cultural expression and political assertion.
• Evaluate the impact of the maison carrée on later architectural movements, particularly during the Renaissance.
  • The maison carrée had a significant impact on later architectural movements, especially during the Renaissance when there was a revival of classical ideals. Its harmonious proportions and elegant details inspired architects like Andrea Palladio, who drew heavily on classical forms in his own works. The temple became a symbol of neoclassical architecture, influencing public buildings and monuments across Europe, as designers sought to capture the grandeur and civic pride embodied in this ancient structure.

Related terms

Corinthian Order: A style of classical architecture characterized by ornate columns with acanthus leaves and scrolls, commonly used in Roman buildings.

Portico: A structure consisting of a roof supported by columns, often serving as an entrance to a building; commonly found in both Greek and Roman architecture.

Temenos: A sacred enclosure that contained a temple and its associated altars and monuments, often used in both Greek and Roman religious practices.