History of architecture

Early Architectural History: Paleolithic era marked by the construction of shelters by humans and ancestors. Nestbuilding behavior observed in great apes like chimpanzees and orangutans. Nestbuilding potentially crucial for human evolution of creativity and construction skills. Development of home bases around 2 million years ago influencing shelter construction. Earliest confirmed structures found in France at Terra Amata site around 400,000 years ago. Neolithic period (10,0002000 BC) saw major architectural advances due to plant and animal domestication. Neolithic settlements like Göbekli Tepe, Jericho, and Çatalhöyük emerged during this period. Ancient Mesopotamian and Egyptian Architecture: Mesopotamian architecture welldocumented with prominent structures like ziggurats in cities such as Babylon and Nineveh. Egyptian architecture characterized by grandeur, precision, hieroglyphs, and intricate carvings. Temples like Karnak and Luxor showcasing advanced architectural techniques. Mesopotamia known for mudbrick buildings and ziggurats elevating temples to command positions. Ancient Egyptians built monumental structures like pyramids and temples influenced by beliefs in the afterlife. Greek and Roman Architectural Influence: Greek architecture focused on symmetry, proportion, and harmony with iconic structures like the Parthenon. Roman architecture adopted and expanded upon Greek principles, known for engineering feats like aqueducts. Influence of Greek and Roman architecture can be seen in modern buildings. Greek temples adorned with sculptures and intricate decorations influencing later styles. Roman architecture spread throughout the empire, combining local traditions with Roman styles. PreColumbian and Mesoamerican Architecture: Complex societies in North, Central, and South America over 3,000 years ago. Mayan, Aztec, and Inca architecture showcased advanced engineering and design. Mesoamerican architecture incorporating intricate carvings and sculptures in sites like Teotihuacan and Tikal. Inca architecture using topography and land materials in designs with examples like Machu Picchu and Sacsayhuamán. Mayan, Aztec, and Inca structures often aligned with astronomical features. South Asian Architectural Evolution: South Asian architecture evolving from ancient Indian styles to Islamic influences. Unique architectural forms emerging in different regions of South Asia over time. Buddhist architecture featuring structures like stupas symbolizing infinite space. Hindu architecture evolving from rockcut cave shrines to monumental temples with regional adaptations. Maru Gurjara architecture characterized by sharply carved statues and spirelets in Hindu and Jain places of worship.