Hellenistic architecture
Introduction
The term Hellenistic usually includes approximately the period that followed the death of Alexander the Great (323 BC) with the division of his empire into personal kingdoms founded by the diádochos, among others, Lagidas in Egypt, Seleucids in Syria or Attalids in Pergamum, until the year 31 BC. C. when Octavian Augustus defeated Mark Antony and Cleopatra. It was characterized by the expansion of the language (koiné), literature and art of Ancient Greece throughout the Mediterranean and the Near East.
The emulation of the different Hellenistic kingdoms among themselves stimulated the development of large urban plans and complexes that had mostly disappeared from the city-states in the century BC. C.[1] Buildings were designed for specific uses, in large spaces, not limited by the physical barriers of Ancient Greece, where new cities such as Alexandria, founded in 332 BC, could be created. C., Antioch, Pergamon or Seleucia del Tigris.
Hellenistic architecture was a high point in the architecture of antiquity. Among his works are two of the considered seven wonders of the ancient world: the Colossus of Rhodes and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. But the Library of Alexandria is also considered an example of architectural ingenuity.
Characteristics of Hellenistic architecture
The kings, in their desire for emulation and control, sent their architects from city to city to build monuments that contributed to their prestige, public, religious or cultural buildings, which facilitated the unity of Hellenistic architecture.[2].
Hellenistic architecture was characterized by its eclecticism and greater freedom of form than Architecture in Ancient Greece, partly due, among others, to the use of the first natural cement concrete, and the construction of large-scale projects and cities conceived from scratch, such as Pergamon or Alexandria. This urban planning was quite innovative for the Greek world. They chose the location to produce a theatrical effect based on the visual panorama of the location. Instead of manipulating the space by correcting its flaws, the construction plans adjusted to the natural environment to enhance its qualities. Many places of recreation appear, such as theaters and public gardens, as well as stoas and basilicas to which a clerestory was added for internal lighting.
The porticos, stoas, palestras, .