Posts in History
Interview With Roderick Beaton on Ancient Greek Cities & Culture
Interview With Roderick Beaton on Ancient Greek Cities & Culture

Mitchell Rocheleau, meets with Roderick Beaton to discuss Ancient Greek Culture & Cities, and the impact it has on modern day city design.

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History, Ancient Architecture, InterviewMitchell RocheleauGreek Architecture, Greek History, Ancient Greece, Ancient Greek Cities, Greek architecture history, Athens Greece History, History Ancient Greece, Ancient Greek Architecture History, Ancient Greek Architecture, Greek Architectural History, Greek Cities, Greek City Design, Ancient Greek City Planning, greek history, greek architecture, greek architecture history, ancient greek city planning, ancient greek architecture, greek city planning, ancient greek architecture history, ancient greek city
Urban and Architectural History of Venice, Italy
Urban and Architectural History of Venice, Italy

Throughout its existence, Venice and its people have had a unifying narrative: the struggle against water. Although the rising sea levels have resulted in death, destruction, and flooding, it has also served a valuable role as the collective antagonist of the Venetian people. It is human nature to band together when faced with a common challenge or adversary. Through necessity and under the constant threat of rising tides, Venetians developed ingenuity, a work ethic, and a common purpose. The bond created by this struggle has been one of the key ingredients to the progress and prosperity of Venice.

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Architecture Today, HistoryMitchell RocheleauVenice Architecture, Venice HIstory, Architecture History of Venice, Venice Italy History, Buildings in Venice, Architectural History of Venice, Venice Travel History, Building in Venice, Venice Italy, Venice Construction Techniques, Venice Sinking
History, Design and Philosophy Behind Central Park in New York City
History, Design and Philosophy Behind Central Park in New York City

Why is Central Park important for our generation to understand? Why would a park constructed in the late 1800’s be significant to our contemporary society? Central Park depicted a moment in our civilization when humans experienced a shift and moment of self-awareness regarding our nature as humans and the environment we were creating. In the late 1800s, New Yorkers stopped and questioned the growing and developing city around them.

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History, Architecture Today, Architecture & PsychologyMitchell RocheleauCentral Park History, New York Central Park, Central Park Design, Central Park Design Competition, Central Park Architecture, History of Central Park, New York History, History of Central Park New York, New York Central Park History, Fredrick Law Olmstead, Olmstead Central Park, Olmstead and Vaux, Olmstead Vaux Central Park, Olmstead New York, Frederick Law Olmstead New York Park
Early People and History that Shaped New York City
Early People and History that Shaped New York City

Why would we be interested in understanding the first settlers of New York City? New York has been a pivotal city in the history of America and the world. One of its ingredients of success lies in the mindset, values, philosophies, and way of life of the people who founded and grew the city. These ideas were manifested in the city's fabric and directly affected the shape of the urban environment.

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Architecture Today, HistoryMitchell RocheleauNew York city architecture, New York Architecture History, Manhattan Architecture History, Manhattan History, Early history New York, First Settlers New York, New Amsterdam, New Amsterdam History, New York History, New York City History, History of New York City, First Settlers New York City, Dutch New Amsterdam, New Amsterdam Dutch, Dutch New Amsterdam History
How The Advent of Capitalism Affected the Form of the City
How The Advent of Capitalism Affected the Form of the City

A slow yet palatable transition within the city started around the sixteenth century. The forces of religion that had driven the city started to contend with a new stimulus based on money and profits. The mercantilist and capitalistic philosophies began manifesting in the city's physical form. The town was still firmly rooted in its medieval customs and structures; however, it was clear that things were changing throughout the Western world.

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Architecture Today, History, Architecture & PsychologyMitchell Rocheleau
The Urban Transformation of Copenhagen
The Urban Transformation of Copenhagen

In the early 1960s, like many cities worldwide, Copenhagen began carving out spaces for the automobile by building streets, highways, and parking inside the city. A group of architects and urban designers predicted the detrimental impacts this could have on the form and life of their town. When the city began to fall into economic decline, the local government showed receptivity to the Architects' ideas and began taking action to revitalize the city.

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Architecture Today, HistoryMitchell Rocheleau
Why Cities Attract People
Why Cities Attract People

There are many reasons why a city becomes a point of destination. People are attracted to certain cities and travel from all over the world to see them. However, many people have trouble articulating why they enjoy them. They know something about it makes them feel comfortable, but they can't put their finger on it.

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Architecture Today, History, Architecture & PsychologyMitchell Rocheleauurban design, best cities, best cities to travel to, city design, best cities for architects, beautiful cities, best cities travel, architecture travel
A Brief History of the Monastery and its Contributions to the Contemporary City
A Brief History of the Monastery and its Contributions to the Contemporary City

In the fifth century, Rome was in steady decline. The empire fell apart due to prolonged outside attacks and the hedonistic, corrupt culture that developed among its leaders and citizens. Life became hollow, brutal, and meaningless. A new religion called Christianity emerged, along with a reimagined way of life. Small ascetic Christian groups began to withdraw from society throughout the Roman Empire. Many of these early groups can be traced to the deserts of northern Egypt.

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History, Architecture TodayMitchell Rocheleauhistory of monasteries, monastic history, history of monastic architecture, monasteries, monk history, architecture history of monastary, monastic architecture, monastic architecture history, mid evil monastic history
The Dark Side of Ancient Roman Cities
The Dark Side of Ancient Roman Cities

Rome's history is often presented as a glittering metropolis full of architectural excellence, sophisticated engineering, extensive paved roads, and glorious monuments. Our contemporary entertainment industry romanticizes the tales of Roman emperors, warriors, gladiators, and politicians. When we visit the ruins, we imagine the daily life of ancient Rome as a pageant of prosperity and industriousness that supported the growth of an ancient utopia. These aspects and portrayals of Rome have a degree of truth behind them. However, a darker side of Rome managed to evade the limelight.  

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History, Ancient ArchitectureMitchell Rocheleauancient rome, Roman Architecture History, history of rome, roman city history, history of roman architecture, roman architecture, Rome Architecture, roman architectural history, architectural history rome, collapse of rome, downfall of rome, ancient rome collapse, collapse of ancient rome
Forces that Shaped Ancient Greek Cities and Culture
Forces that Shaped Ancient Greek Cities and Culture

Many factors shaped ancient Greek cities. The natural landscape, climate, religious beliefs, philosophy, literature, politics, law, sport, art, theater, and psychology amalgamated to create genuinely unique cities and a thriving culture. Many aspects of Greek civilizations still form the basis of modern Western culture and society; however, we have also made significant diversions, which I believe deserve close assessment. Can certain aspects and values of ancient Greek cities and culture be re-integrated into our contemporary societies to help improve our current condition?

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History, Ancient ArchitectureMitchell Rocheleauancient greek architecture, ancient greek city, ancient greek city planning, ancient greek architecture history, greek architecture history, architecture history of greece, greek architecture, greek history, greek city planning, history of athens, Athens architecture history
Early History of Cities and The Development of the Urban Form
Early History of Cities and The Development of the Urban Form

How did cities develop? Many of us take our environments for granted without questioning how and why they evolved into the forms we see today. In his book The City in History, Lewis Mumford provides a fascinating account of the history of cities. His interpretation dissects the complex forces that led to their creation. He discusses what forms these forces manifest themselves in throughout human development.

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History, Ancient ArchitectureMitchell Rocheleauancient cities, ancient city, Ancient architecture, ancient civilizations, ancient architecture, history of civilization, history of cities, ancient city history, history of village, human civilization history, civilization history, early human civilizations
The History of Gothic Cathedrals: The Architecture of Light
The History of Gothic Cathedrals: The Architecture of Light

Gothic cathedrals are testaments to medieval Europe's ingenuity, spiritual fervor, and artistic brilliance. With their intricate detailing and imposing facades, these towering structures invite admiration and contemplation, drawing millions each year who seek to connect with a bygone era.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauGothic Architecture, Gothic Architecture Prague, Prague Architecture, Best Architecture Prague, Gothic Architecture History, Gothic Cathedral History, History of Gothic Architecture, Best Gothic Architecture, Best Gothic Cathedral, Best Gothic Architecture Europe, Best Gothic Architecture Prauge, Best Gothic Church, History of Gothic Churches, Gothic Church History
The Story of Notre Dame Cathedral: A Chronicle of Construction and Restoration
The Story of Notre Dame Cathedral: A Chronicle of Construction and Restoration

The Notre Dame Cathedral is a testament to architectural innovation, spiritual influence, and human ingenuity. Its construction, spanning several centuries, showcases the evolution of Gothic architecture and mirrors Paris's flourishing economy and cultural development. By exploring the cathedral's architecture, construction, and history, I hope to provide insight into how it transcended its role as a Cathedral and developed into a cultural icon.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauNotre Dame Cathedral, Paris Architecture, Architecture history paris, Gothic Architecture, Paris Gothic Architecture, Gothic Architecture Paris, Notre-Dame, Notre Dame Cathedral Fire, Notre-Dame Fire, Fire Notre Dame, Fire Notre-Dame Cathedral, Best Architecture Paris, Top Architecture Paris, Best Architecture France, Best Architecture Europe, Best Gothic Architecture, Best Gothic Cathedral, Gothic Architecture History, Gothic Architecture History Paris, Architecture History Paris, History of Architecture France, Gothic Cathedral History, History of Notre Dame Cathedral, History of Gothic Churches, Gothic Church, Gothic Church History, Notre Dame Fire, Notre Dame rennovation, Notre Dame Opening
The Story Behind The Architecture and Construction of St. Peter's Basilica
The Story Behind The Architecture and Construction of St. Peter's Basilica

At the heart of Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica stands as a monumental testament to Renaissance architecture's ingenuity and the Christian faith's enduring spirit. This iconic structure has captivated visitors and worshippers for centuries with its imposing façade, towering dome, and sacred interior. Its architectural history is a tapestry woven from the visions of legendary architects such as Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Each contributed their genius to the Basilica's construction, leaving a lasting legacy.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauSt. Peter's, St. Peter's Basilica, St. Peter's History, St. Peter's Architecture History, St. Peter's Architecture, St. Peter's Construction, St. Peter's in Rome, The Vatican, Vatican City Architecture, Bramante Architect, Roman Architecture History, Rome architectural history, Rome best architecture, Best Architecture in Rome, Best Architecture in Italy, Top Architecture Rome, Visit Rome, Michelangelo, Michelangelo Architect, Alberti Architect, Renaissance Architecture, Giacomo Della Porta, Architectural History of St. Peter's, Architectural History of St. Peter's Rome
The Story Behind the Architecture and Construction of St. Paul's Cathedral and Sir Christopher Wren
The Story Behind the Architecture and Construction of St. Paul's Cathedral and Sir Christopher Wren

The construction of St. Paul’s Cathedral helped breathe new life into the city. It created jobs and a new identity for London and served as a monument that brought people together. It marked the beginning of London’s development into a global capital.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauSt. Paul's Cathedral, St. Paul's, London Architecture, London Architecture History, Wren, Christopher Wren, Sir Christopher Wren, Wren Architect, British Architectural History, London Architectural History, St. Paul's Architectural History, St. Paul's Cathedral History, English Architecture History, Sir Christopher Wren Architecture History, Architecture History of London, Architectural History of London, Architectural History of Britian, Architectural History of St. Paul's
Why You Should Study Architecture History
Why You Should Study Architecture History

If studied closely, architecture can provide glimpses into human history. It can give insight into our ancestors' customs, rituals, technologies, religions, and daily life. Architecture can provide a deeper understanding of the evolution and development of the human species. It allows us to have a holistic perspective on our place in the context of humanity. From prehistoric structures to contemporary architecture, we can see what was important to humans at the time and what were they trying to say through their buildings.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauArchitecture history, history of architecture, why study architecture history, history of world architecture, best architecture history, history of architecture degree, studying architecture history, best reasons to study architecture history, architecture history machu pichu, architecture travel, should i study architecture history, world architecture history, history of worlds best architecture
The Architecture of Sunnylands Home, Visitor Center and Gardens - The Annenberg Estate
The Architecture of Sunnylands Home, Visitor Center and Gardens - The Annenberg Estate

Nestled in the foothills of Palm Desert, California, the Annenberg Estate is a stunning example of mid-century modern architecture. The estate sits about 25 minutes southeast of downtown Palm Springs. Built in 1960 by renowned architect A. Quincy Jones for media mogul Walter Annenberg, the original estate is comprised of 25,000 square foot house on 200 acres.

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History, Modern ArchitectureMitchell Rocheleausunnylands, palm desert architecture, best architect palm springs, best architect palm desert, Annenberg estate, sunnylands history, sunnylands annenberg, best architecture palm springs, best architecture palm desert, top architects palm springs, top architects palm desert, best architects palm springs, best architects palm desert, best architecture firms palm springs, best architecture firms palm desert, famous houses palm springs, famous houses palm desert
The Story of Sagrada Familia and Architect Antoni Gaudi
The Story of Sagrada Familia and Architect Antoni Gaudi

The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona Spain, by architect Antoni Gaudi is a seminal work of architecture. It is renowned world wide for its innovative design and engineering. Listen to the story of how the cathedral came to fruition and why it is one of the most important works of architecture in history. We hope you enjoy.

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HistoryMitchell RocheleauSagrada FamiliaAntoni Gaudi, Sagrada Familia, Sagrada Familia History, history of sagrada familia, Barcelona architecture, famous architects barcelona, best architecture barcelona, history of barcelona architecture, architect antoni gaudi, gaudi architecture, best gaudi architecture, gaudi cathedral, best architecture to visit barcelona, buildings to visit in barcelona, architecture history of sagrada familia, architecture of sagrada familia, gaudi architect, antoni gaudi architect