Greek architecture has left an enduring mark on Europe’s built environment. The classical orders – Doric, Ionic and Corinthian – pioneered by ancient Greek architects such as Iktinos and Kallikrates in the construction of the Parthenon have been embraced and adapted across Europe. The neoclassical movement of the 18th and 19th centuries saw a revival of these architectural elements, with prominent structures like the British Museum in London, the stock exchange of Brussels, the Parliament of Vienna, the Valhalla, near Munich, Germany and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin showcasing Greek-inspired columns and pediments. The design of the Brandenburg Gate is based on the Propylaea of the Acropolis with the addition of new elements such as the base of the columns. This Gate was named Spreeathen in 1930, or otherwise Athens on the river Spree in Berlin. The use of symmetry, proportion and harmony in Greek architecture became guiding principles for European architects throughout the Renaissance and beyond. The clean lines and balanced proportions seen in Greek temples influenced the design of cathedrals, government buildings and even residential homes across the continent.
Ernst Ziller, a German-born architect, left a lasting impact on the architectural landscape of Greece, particularly in Athens, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was the first to bring artificial ventilation and central heating to Greece. He transformed 19th century Athens from a village into a European city, giving it the architectural identity and aesthetics that the capital of the new Greek state needed, connecting it to its ancient past. He replaced roller shutters in the shops of Athens and decorated his buildings with cast iron railings with designs inspired by mythology. Ziller is the first architect to use iron pillars in construction. He formalized the connection of the Renaissance with Antiquity, with distinct eclectic tendencies as first applied by his teacher. Ziller’s personal contribution consists in the combination of Greek structural and decorative elements with Renaissance architecture in order to serve the ideological needs of Greek society at the time. Here are some significant buildings influenced by Ernst Ziller:
Numismatic Museum:
Originally designed as the residence for the renowned archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, Ziller adapted the plans, turning it into the Numismatic Museum. The building showcases neoclassical features with intricate detailing, including a prominent Doric order façade.
National Bank of Greece (Old Building):
Ziller contributed to the expansion and renovation of the National Bank of Greece’s headquarters in Athens. His designs incorporated neoclassical elements, creating an imposing and elegant structure that symbolized financial stability.
Presidential Mansion (formerly the Royal Palace):
Ziller played a role in the reconstruction and expansion of the Royal Palace, now the Presidential Mansion. While not the sole architect, he contributed to the overall neoclassical design, leaving his mark on this iconic Athenian landmark.
University of Athens Central Building:
Ziller was involved in the design of the Central Building of the University of Athens. The structure exhibits neoclassical characteristics and stands as a prominent example of academic architecture in Greece.
Municipal Theater of Patras- Peloponnese
The Apollo Theatre of Patras is an architectural masterpiece. It was built in 1972 by the German architect Ernst Ziller and it is found on the east side of King George I Square, one of the most popular squares of Patras. Its architecture is of neoclassical style and it is one of the three neoclassical theatres that still survive in Greece, the other two being the Malliaropouleio Theatre in Tripoli and the Apollo Theatre in Syros. In fact, the theatre of Patras is a replica of the famous La Scala di Milan.
Athens Flair, an architectural neoclassical masterpiece located in the heart of Athens, holds the essence of an old-world classical beauty in a city that celebrates its rich past in every single step. Its history only serves to enhance its character.
The construction of the original building dates back to 1880-1889 and was designed by the Danish architect Theophil Edvard Freiherr von Hansen. In 1985 the building was classified as a work of art from the Greek Ministry of Civilization, thanks to its architectural merit and prominent location while in 2023 Athens Flair was declared winner on the category Luxury Heritage Hotel in Greece at the World Hotel Luxury Awards. Situated at the corner of Delfon and Didotou streets in Kolonaki area, it offers a prime example of architecture of the neoclassical era and is a listed building under Law 1469/50 that needs special state protection. In the neoclassical form of the building, there is an obvious influence from the Greek Doric Order, which was the first style of Classical Architecture in Ancient Greece.
Another architectural example is the Grande Bretagne hotel in Athens. It has been a landmark in recent and modern history. It is a significant example of the French Revival style chosen by its creator, also Theophilos Hansen, in a change from the prevailing neoclassicism of the time. It is a brilliant hotel that has been visited by great politicians, famous artists, singers, conductors, Hollywood stars and business giants. An oasis of urbanity, it has linked Athens with Europe for 158 years, and is rightly seen as a symbol of Athenian extroversion.