Architecture, A Notion of Power...

Throughout history there have been times were architecture has been thought of as a symbol of power. If we look through the Ancient Egyptian times, the Greek times or the Roman times we will notice that all those civilizations had one thing in common; they wanted to outdo one and another in terms of architectural manifestation.

Even when architectural styles seem to transcend from one period to another they seemed not only to look for change, but they wanted to implement their own unique capabilities upon architecture. The Taj-Mahal for example, was built for the sake of reviving the life of a dead wife. The architect created a piece of art that had lasted for years and lived to become one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Our notions of places like these tell us about the intention that brought a mosque so extraordinary into existence. Walking through its landscapes and seeing the reflection of its 35m structure rising pointedly towards the beautiful sky, gives oneself the feeling of modesty. The white colors purify our senses, leaving us to judge our actions as we slowly walk towards it, wondering simultaneously whether we have succeeded in nourishing ourselves in this life or not. Outstanding as it may be, this structure stands to this day silently…praised and admired by all who pass by.

This however is not our notion of power, it is merely admiration. However when a work of architecture succeeds to bring to itself millions of visitors and numerous watching eyes even after years of its existence, thus it succeeds in being powerful. Our notions of power are not in this case physical; they are in the effect that architecture is capable of implementing on its inhabitants/users. Have you ever walked through a building and felt a slight twitch; something out of the ordinary? That feeling is the kind of feeling you get when you are confronted by a grand structure often standing silently across a corner of the road, or on top of a valley hiding from all curious eyes wishing to disturb its harmony.