Ictinus

Ancient Greek architect (fl. 5th century BC), known for designing the Parthenon.

Biography

Little is known of Ictinus’s life; he worked in Athens during Pericles’ Golden Age, collaborating with Phidias and Callicrates.

Architectural Philosophy

Ictinus’s philosophy embraced classical Greek principles, focusing on harmony, proportion, and structural elegance.

Core Contributions

• Specialized in classical Greek and religious architecture.
• Notable works:
  • Parthenon (Athens, 447–432 BC, religious).
  • Temple of Apollo Epicurius (Bassae, c. 450–420 BC, religious).
  • Telesterion at Eleusis (partial contribution, c. 435 BC, religious).

Architectural Connections

• Ancient Greece: Greek classical tradition.
• Religious: Temples.

Influence and Legacy

Ictinus’s Parthenon set the standard for classical architecture, influencing architects like Phidias. It remains a global icon.

Related Architects & Works

Phidias (related architect), Callicrates (related architect), Doric Column (element), Classical (period)