History of Architecture 1

Architecture's history refers to the evolution of architectural styles across different countries and eras. Throughout history, civilizations and nations have sought to establish distinctive identities and characters for themselves. Even when they don't actively pursue this, what we call cultural heritage is passed down over time. We can compare these legacies and extract their distinctive characteristics through what has reached us from different civilizations. These studies are useful in many aspects of life. One beneficial area of study is examining the architectural character of different historical periods from the beginning of civilization until now and linking these changes to contemporary events of each period, including political developments related to human activity.

Among the factors affecting architecture that humans have no direct control over are natural elements such as climate, geography, and geology of a place. Then come human factors such as the economic, social, and political status of a country. We find that a country's architectural character inevitably changes with alterations in any of these factors.

The history of architecture, as a form of studying history, is subject to many variables and limitations that constrain it as a method of study and comparison. Consequently, many perspectives have emerged to study architecture throughout its history. Most of the studies conducted and approaches applied are of Western origin.