The earliest known architectural styles include the Neolithic, Megalithic, and Ancient Egyptian architectures, which date back to around 8000 BCE. These styles were characterized by the use of large stones and simple geometric shapes. The Classical period, which began in ancient Greece around the 8th century BCE, introduced the orders of architecture, including Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. These styles were characterized by their use of columns, entablatures, and pediments.
The Roman architecture, which followed the Classical period, was characterized by its use of arches, vaults, and domes. The Romanesque style, which emerged in the 10th century CE, was characterized by its use of thick walls, ribbed vaults, and pointed arches. The Gothic style, which emerged in the 12th century CE, was characterized by its use of pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
The Renaissance period, which began in the 14th century CE, was characterized by its revival of Classical principles and its use of perspective, proportion, and symmetry. The Baroque style, which emerged in the 17th century CE, was characterized by its use of dramatic contrasts, ornate decoration, and dynamic compositions. The Neoclassical style, which emerged in the 18th century CE, was characterized by its revival of Classical principles and its use of symmetry, proportion, and simplicity.
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century CE, led to the development of new architectural styles, including the Gothic Revival, the Romanesque Revival, and the Italianate style. The 19th century CE also saw the development of the Art Nouveau, the Secession, and the Art Deco styles. The 20th century CE saw the development of modernist styles, including the International Style, the Brutalist, and the Deconstructivist styles. The 21st century CE has seen the development of sustainable and eco-friendly architectural styles, as well as the use of new materials and technologies.