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Difficulty: MediumEtruscan Art

Although no Etruscan temples survive intact, descriptions by the Roman architect Vitruvius provide key insights into their original appearance. Which of the following features is characteristic of Etruscan temple design, distinguishing it from typical classical Greek temples?

  1. A
    A continuous peristyle of columns enclosing the cella on all four sides
  2. A deep front porch and a single entrance accessed via a frontal flight of stepsAnswer
  3. C
    The use of structural concrete and barrel vaults to span wide interior spaces
  4. D
    Pediments containing complex narrative relief sculptures carved from marble

Answer

A deep front porch and a single entrance accessed via a frontal flight of steps
The correct answer identifies the distinct frontality of Etruscan temples. Under Etruscan design conventions, temples were set on a high podium and could only be entered from the front via a single staircase leading to a deep porch. In contrast, Greek temples sat on a low three-stepped platform (stylobate) and were surrounded by columns, allowing entry from any direction.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the question requirements to determine what architectural features distinguish Etruscan temples from classical Greek temples.
Etruscan temples are defined by their frontality, deep porches, triple cellae, and terracotta roof sculptures, whereas Greek temples are symmetrical, peripteral, and use marble.
To establish a contrast between the layout conventions of the two cultures.
2
Evaluate the architectural details in each option to identify the correct contrast.
A deep front porch with a single flight of steps at the front is characteristic of Etruscan temples, while the other features describe Greek or Roman architecture.
This identifies the correct option based on Vitruvian descriptions of Etruscan temples.

Key Concept

Etruscan Temple Architecture
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Topics

Etruscan Art

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