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The purpose of architecture has always been to provide some type of shelter. It might be a tomb, a temple, a factory, or a dwelling. The plan, the method of construction, and even the final appearance of a structure should be determined by its purpose.

The oldest known examples of architecture are in Egypt. Some of the most important structures were built as tombs. They were made of great stone blocks and are now called pyramids. Egyptian temples were thick walled, with heavy pillars.

The Greeks developed a much lighter, smaller type of architecture in their temples. Out in front a portico was supported by columns. In some of the more important temples, such as the Parthenon, the columns circled the entire building. Greek architects designed the columns and their parts very carefully. Certain excellent designs became famous and were known as orders. These were called Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

The Romans needed huge public buildings such as market places, public baths, and arenas. To provide large open spaces, they built curving masonry walls. These turned inward until they met in a rounded arch.

The Romans were the first to build with concrete. They used it for huge domed buildings such as the Pantheon and vast amusement centers such as the Coliseum. Roman architecture achieved a feeling of strength and dignity through its massiveness.

In the Middle Ages religion was the center of life. There was need of cathedrals that could house throngs of people. This led architects in northern France to design a new method of construction. It used pointed stone arches held up by slim pillars and narrow ribs. This permitted large open areas on the sides of buildings. These were filled with stained glass windows. It was called the Gothic style of architecture.

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