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Ictinus

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description Ictinus Overview

Ictinus was an ancient Greek architect active in the fifth century BCE. He is most widely credited with designing the Parthenon on the Athenian Acropolis, working alongside Callicrates under the supervision of the sculptor Phidias. Ancient sources also name him as an architect of the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae. His work is often cited in studies of Classical Doric and Ionic architecture.

help Ictinus FAQ

What famous ancient Greek structures did Ictinus design?

Ictinus is most famously credited with co-designing the Parthenon in Athens alongside Callicrates in the fifth century BCE under the supervision of the sculptor Phidias. He also designed the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, which is famous for its unique mix of architectural orders.

Where is the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, designed by Ictinus, located?

The temple designed by Ictinus is located high in the remote mountains of Arcadia in the region of Bassae on the Peloponnese peninsula. It is notable for being the first Greek temple to feature a Corinthian column in its interior.

Did Ictinus write any famous architectural treatises?

Yes, ancient Roman writers like Vitruvius mention that Ictinus wrote a treatise about his design of the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae. Unfortunately, the actual text of his book has been entirely lost to history, and it only survives in brief historical references.

Who actually funded the Parthenon that Ictinus designed?

The construction of the Parthenon was funded heavily by the Delian League, an alliance of Greek city-states whose treasury was controversially moved to Athens. The statesman Pericles championed this massive, multi-year building project to celebrate Athenian dominance in the mid-5th century BCE.

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