Know Your Architecture: Neoclassical Architecture and the 5 Most Beautiful Examples.

“The only way for us to become great and perhaps inimitable is to imitate the ancients” wrote the German art historian and archaeologist Johann Joachim Winckelmann in the 18th century, thus capturing the core idea of the movement known as Neoclassicism.

Neoclassical architecture, sometimes also referred to as “Classical Revivalism”, is an architectural style that emerged in the late 18th century as a revival of the classical Greek and Roman architectural principles. It was a reaction to the ornate and extravagant styles of the Baroque and Rococo, which had been popular in previous centuries.

This movement drew inspiration from the ancient architecture of Greece and Rome, especially from the classical orders such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian columns. The style sought to capture the elegance, simplicity, and proportionality of classical buildings and emphasized clean lines, symmetry, and harmonious proportions.

Six distinguishing features of neoclassical architecture

Classical, but modernized appearance

Neoclassical buildings often feature classical column orders, such as Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian columns. Look for columns with pronounced capitals and fluted shafts.

Symmetry

Neoclassical architecture tends to a high degree of symmetry. The buildings are often arranged around a central axis, with balanced design elements on both sides.

The same applies to proportions and scale. Neoclassical buildings strive for harmonious proportions and a sense of balance. Look for well-proportioned facades, evenly spaced columns, and a sense of visual order.

Pediments and porticos

Pediments decorated with sculptures or decorative elements are a common feature of neoclassical architecture. Porticos, i.e., porches with rows of columns, are also found.

Simple and geometric forms

In neoclassical buildings, clear lines and simple geometric shapes are generally preferred. Look for rectangular or square shapes, as well as circular or semicircular elements such as domes or arches.

Classical and simple ornaments and motifs

Although neoclassical architecture is generally more restrained in terms of ornamentation compared to earlier styles, there are still decorative elements to look out for. Look for friezes, cornices, moldings, and other classically inspired decorative details.

White or light facades

Neoclassical buildings often have white or light facades reminiscent of the classical buildings of ancient Greece and Rome. This color choice emphasizes purity, simplicity, and a connection to the ideals of ancient civilizations.

Five particularly beautiful examples of neoclassical architecture

After neoclassical architecture gained importance in the 18th century, it increasingly became the first choice for important public buildings, cultural institutions, and even residential developments.

The following examples represent only a fraction of the many impressive buildings constructed in the neoclassical style. However, they are among the best examples of this movement.

The Brandenburg Gate – Berlin, Germany

Built between 1788 and 1791, the Brandenburg Gate is one of Berlin's most famous landmarks. It was designed by Carl Gotthard Langhans and features neoclassical elements such as Doric columns, a large arch, and a chariot sculpture on top.

The United States Capitol – Washington, D.C., United States

Construction of the United States Capitol began in 1793 and continued into the 19th century. Designed by William Thornton and later expanded by several architects, the building features neoclassical characteristics such as a prominent dome, colonnades with Corinthian columns, and a symmetrical layout.

Teatro alla Scala – Milan, Italy

Built between 1776 and 1778, the Teatro Alla Scala is one of the most famous opera houses in the world. It was designed by Giuseppe Piermarini and features a neoclassical exterior with Corinthian pilasters, a triangular pediment, and a large colonnade.

The Royal Crescent – Bath, England

The Royal Crescent is a residential building in Bath, constructed between 1767 and 1774. It was designed by John Wood the Younger and is an example of Georgian neoclassical architecture. The large crescent-shaped building consists of a row of identical Georgian townhouses with classical elements such as columns and decorative details.

The Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain

Outisnn, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Completed in 1819, the Prado Museum is a neoclassical art museum that houses an extensive collection of European paintings. It was designed by Juan de Villanueva and features a neoclassical facade with Ionic columns and a pediment adorned with sculpted reliefs.