As new Americans pushed deeper into the Southern portions of America to seek their fortunes, they took with them ideas of building and of design, one of the most prominent and elegant was the Greek revival architecture.

The premise of this style of architecture goes back into the first Greek temples, featuring Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian column styles. Elegant porticos, a low or gabled roof, and an enormous windows and doors were always present, allowing for a beautiful sunlit dwelling.

The Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens are one of the most celebrated areas of Greek revival architecture in the world. The center piece, Arlington, stands tall on the horizon, supported by six of ionic white columns. The entire front of the house is a dazzling white, featuring two massive doors granting entry to the home. Today, the home serves as a museum for early 19th century art, featuring many paintings and furnishings.

Next, you’ll want to check out the Old State Bank, located in Decatur. The building was constructed to be one of three branches to the Alabama State bank. However, the Civil War had other plans. For a period the bank was used as a military headquarters, and saw the damage and deterioration of war and aging.

By a stroke of luck and fate, the bank survived the onslaught of war, and with a meticulous passion for perfection, the restoration began to save the now 143 year old marvel. The results revealed the absolutely magnificent architecture and construction that had been hidden for so many years. The bank features five gigantic limestone ionic columns, weighing over 100 tons each; it stands a giant among ants.

The Greek revival architecture of Alabama and several other southern states is truly a must see for all people. The design techniques, hand carved detailed work, and finest materials all became standards as these homes sprang to life again, re-revealing a lost art, one which we are still striving to maintain today.