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London, as a city with some of the most famous buildings and monuments, takes its influence from a range of periods and times in history. Many of London’s most famous buildings are a reflection of this. In the 1700s and 1800s, the neoclassical movement took hold, and the grandeur of Ancient Greece-like columns and proportions can be seen all over the city. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the famous spots in England’s capital.
The British Museum
The British Museum is one of the famous examples of neoclassical architecture in the city. Dating back to the mid-1800s and designed by Sir Robert Smirke, the architecture is heavily influenced by Ancient Greece. Greek design was famous for symmetry and elegance, something easily spotted in the pediment above the Ionic columns, a nod to temples built at the time. Beyond just the design, the museum itself holds one of the most important collections of artefacts from Ancient Greece. Visitors can immerse themselves in history both inside, taking in the Elgin Marbles that were originally part of the Parthenon, as well as outside, viewing the beautiful architecture.
The Royal Exchange
Although these buildings were created over two hundred years ago and based on designs from thousands of years before, Ancient Greek architecture and culture still maintain fascination to this day. The enduring influence can be seen in the entertainment industry with shows and movies like Kaos, 300, and Alexander. It has started to permeate the digital world into iGaming. Casino777 games like Gates of Olympus 1000 bring together the worlds of gaming and slots, allowing users the chance to experience Ancient Greece from their personal device. It indicates that as entertainment and culture changes and evolves, an interest in Ancient Greece ever remains.
The Royal Exchange is located in the middle of London and was originally created as a hub for traders, designed by Sir William Tite and completed in 1844. Eight Corinthian columns mirror a Greek temple and support a portico on the facade of the building. It’s said that the influence of Greek architecture on some of the most important buildings in the city symbolises the association of classical ideals and democracy and commerce.
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St Pancras Church
In the early 19th century, William and Henry Inwood designed one of the most striking examples of Greek architecture in London. The most visually appealing feature of the church is its caryatid porch, resembling the Porch of the Caryatids at the Erechtheion, from which it was directly inspired. Just like its Athenian version, sculpted female figures support the porch; however, the main structure includes Ionic columns. A stunning homage to Greek architecture, it stands as a testament to the beauty of design created thousands of years ago.
At various places in London, passersby can see the influence of ancient culture, not just that of Ancient Greece. These buildings stand as a testament to the effect history has had on the city and the deep regard that generations gone by had for their predecessors. So whether you are a history buff or someone interested in the arts, then exploring these Greek-inspired monuments will make for a fascinating journey through time.