Timeline by STEPHANIE ALVAREZ

Stonehenge

stephaniea980 — 2025-01-30 17:44:53 UTC

Stonehenge is one of the most well-known prehistoric stone structures in the world. It is still unknown who built Stonehenge, but it is known it was built over 5,000 years ago. It is located in Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. The larger stones in the structure are sarsen stones, while the smaller stones are made of 'bluestones.' Throughout the years, the purpose of Stonehenge has changed drastically with its size having changed throughout the years to serve its purpose in that given moment. Historians believe it was first used as a 'computer' to track the solar and lunar eclipses and years. Others say it served as a temple to worship the sun or moon gods. The only proven use is that it was once used as a cemetery, with over 200 people buried on the grounds of the prehistoric site.

Lascaux Cave painting

stephaniea980 — 2025-02-10 17:21:16 UTC

Lascaux is a famous Paleolithic-era painting dating back to some 20,000 years before the use of modern painting techniques. The paintings are believed to exhibit the daily or 'monumental' activities of the Paleolithic era people. Throughout the cave, over 2000 figures were painted onto the wall. Sections have been identified in the cave; the Great Hall of the Bulls, the Lateral Passage, the Shaft of the Dead Man, the Chamber of Engravings, the Painted Gallery, and the Chamber of Felines. The cave that this art was created in is located in the Dordogne region of France. Through much speculation and analysis, experts were able to determine that the art was painted out of several different pigmented minerals.

Sumerian Worshipers

stephaniea980 — 2025-02-10 17:21:18 UTC

The Tell Asmar Hoard is a collection of twelve statues found in 1933 in Eshnunna, which would now be considered to be a part of Iraq. The Sumerian Worshipper sculptures depict Sumerian people worshipping and praying to a god. The creator of these sculptures is unknown. Although the exact creation date of these sculptures is unknown, most were created between 2900-2550 BC. The materials used to make these sculptures were found to be alabaster, limestone, and gypsum. The sculptures were created to honor those who offer sacrifices and prayers to their god. They were often placed in temples in order to connect their realm to the other realm.

Code of Hammurabi

stephaniea980 — 2025-02-10 17:42:20 UTC

Hammurabi is an ancient law code written by King Hammurabi. The code was written between the years of 1755 and 1700 BC. It is the most well-known piece of text from the Babylonian Empire. It is the longest, best-organized, and best-preserved legal text from the ancient Near East. The code of Hammurabi is written in the ancient Babylonian dialect of Akkadian. The code is inscribed into a long piece of basalt steel. The ancient code serves as a model for others, it includes the mosaic law for the bible. The code consists of over 282 laws varying for different occasions. Some people believe the laws on the text to be overly strict

Hatshepsut's Mortuary Temple

stephaniea980 — 2025-02-25 17:38:17 UTC

The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut is a mortuary temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. The temple was built during Hatshepsut's reign, hence the name, but the exact builders of this temple are unknown, although it is speculated that it could've been built by Senenmut. The temple was founded around 15 BC. Queen Hatshepsut's mortuary temple was built to honor the god Amun to ensure that Hatshepsut's life story was told and to assert her power. The primary materials used to construct it were limestone, granite, and sandstone. The temple is now located in the West Bank of Luxor.

Ishtar Gate

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 02:57:51 UTC

The Ishtar Gate was one of several gates used to enter the city of Babylon. Although it is unknown exactly who constructed the gate, we do know that it was King Nebuchadnezzar II who sent for the gate to be constructed. Studies show that it is possible the gate was built sometime around 575 B.C.. The roof and doors of the gate were made of cedar, and the walls of glazed bricks. The wall is also decorated with alternating depictions of dragons and bulls. The whole purpose of the creation of the Ishtar Gate was to show the power and wealth of the Neo-Babylonian empire. The gate, having been built in Babylon, is now located in present day Iraq.

Solomon's second temple

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 02:58:52 UTC

King Solomon's Second Temple is a common myth because Solomon himself built the First Temple, and subsequently, the Second Temple was built. The Second Temple was built in Jerusalem in about 516 BCE when the Jews returned from their Babylonian exile. It was built on the Temple Mount, where Solomon's First Temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BCE. It was rebuilt by Zerubbabel under Persian rule and expanded and refurbished further by King Herod the Great around 20 BCE. The temple was built of large stones, wood, and gold and bronze decorations, all strictly in accordance with sacred architectural conventions. It was even the center for Jewish sacrifice and worship until it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The Second Temple remains a vibrantly significant place in Jewish history, but there is only the Western Wall remaining today.

Nefertiti

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:28:36 UTC

Nefertiti was the queen of Egypt and the wife of King Akhenaton. She and her husband were well known for having changed the polytheistic religion in Egypt to one that was monotheistic and worshipped only one god. They converted everyone to a religion that worshipped the sun god, Aton. The bust of Nefertiti is a sculpture made in Nefertiti's image. The artist is believed to have been Thutmose because the sculpture was found in his workshop. Its creation date is around 1345 BC. The workshop in which it was founded is located in Amarna, Egypt, so it was most likely created in that area. The bust was created out of stucco-coated limestone and painted. The sculpture of Nefertiti's bust was created as a reference. Multiple sources state that Thutmose created the bust to have something to work off of when designing other portraits of her likeness.

The Great Bath

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:29:51 UTC

The Great Bath is essentially a large, structurally sound hole in the ground. It was supposedly built by the Harappan civilization, but the specific names of the people who planned and built it are unknown. According to archaeologists, the Great Bath was built around 5,000 years ago. It was built in the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, or present-day Pakistan. The Great Bath was made of materials including sawed brick, gypsum mortar, and bitumen. Although the exact purpose of the Great Bath is unknown, it is believed to have been used for ritualistic cleansing. Many people compare the Great Bath to a public pool, seeing as it was available for public use.

Toreador Fresco

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:32:05 UTC

The Toreador Fresco is a painting that depicts 3 people leaping over a bull. The artist of this work of art is unknown. It was made in 1400 BC. The Toreador Fresco was found in pieces in the Palace of Minos, a place in Ancient Greece. The materials used to create this mural, although quite difficult to figure out, are presumably colored pigments and plaster. The purpose of this painting is to display an artistic rendition of a ritual from Ancient Greece. It is said that engaging in bull sports was seen as a “rite of passage” in order to become an adult in Ancient Greece, implying that the purpose of the mural was to show off this “rite of passage”.

Mask of Agamemnon

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:39:21 UTC

Agamemnon was a military commander of the Greek forces during the Trojan War. He was the king of Mycenae who commanded the Achaeans. The mask depicted was created to be used for his funeral. The creator of the mask to this day remains unknown. The speculated creation of this mask ranges from 1550-1500 B.C.. It was created in Mycenae Greece. The primary material used to construct the mask was gold. The mask was mostmlikely created in order to show off his wealth, status, and honor.

Amphora

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:52:01 UTC

Amphora is a style of ancient Greek pottery used to depict mythological stories and more. There are several pieces of Amphora in existence, but their artist is still vastly unknown. However, since so many pieces of this style of pottery exist, it is likely believed that there was more than one person who constructed these pottery pieces. It is believed that the creation of these pieces ranges from 550-500 B.C., typically believed to be the Archaic period of Greece. The materials used to create and sculpt the amphora into a majestic look in Greek artistry were mostly terracotta, but also consisted of metal, glass, and stone at times. The primary purpose of creating an amphora was to store items and the transportation of goods. The subjective purpose, on the other hand, was to showcase Greece's proud and rich history on its own products, securing its legacy to last for generations.

Discobolus

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 03:54:02 UTC

Discobolus is a famous Greek sculpture depicting an athlete throwing a discus. The world-renowned sculpture was sculpted by an important Greek sculptor by the name of Myron. Discobolus is speculated to have first been created around 450-440 BCE, but it is important to note that these are only speculations, and the actual truth remains unknown. The location of its creation, being created in Greece and by a Greek artist, is in ancient Greece, specifically in Athens. Originally, the sculpture of Discobolus was created out of bronze, but the surviving recreations are crafted from marble. The purpose of Discobolus was likely to celebrate athletic achievement and the human form in an aesthetically pleasing work of art. Additionally, the sculpture serves to showcase the artistic ideals of Classical Greece through a unique sculpture.

The Parthenon

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 11:41:44 UTC

The Parthenon is one of the most famous temples located in Greece. The temple was built to honor the Goddess Athena. The Parthenon was designed by renowned architects Ictinus and Callicrates, under the supervision of Phidias. This marvelous temple was constructed during the Golden Age of Athens in 447-432 B.C.. It is located on the Acropolis of Athens, Greece where visitors and tourists may marvel at its beauty from a distance. The Parthenon was built using marble, specifically of the Pentelic kind, as well as the sculpting skills of the laborers and architects who built it. It was built to honor the goddess Athena and at one point in time included the famed statue of Athena Parthenos. It was also used as a way to showcase the extensive wealth and artistic abilities of the greek people.

Laocoon

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 11:42:38 UTC

The Laocoon is a sculpture that depicts the mythological Laocoon and his sons being attacked by serpents. The sculpture was created by the Rhodian sculptors Agesander, Athenodoros, and Polydoros. The Laocoon sculpture is speculated to have been created in the first century BCE, although no one knows the true date of its creation. It is likely to have been created in Rhodes, Greece, seeing as it was created by Rhodian sculptors. Although it is speculated to have been created in Rhodes, the Laocoon sculpture was originally discovered in Rome. The sculpture was carefully sculpted out of pure white marble. The purpose of the Laocoon sculpture's creation is likely to have been to showcase the artistic skill of the sculptors that made it as well as to represent the intense emotional and physical suffering of Laocoon.

Etruscans

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 12:09:35 UTC

The Etruscans were an ancient civilization that lived in central Italy, especially in what is now known as Tuscany, between the 8th and 3rd century BCE. Their cities included the important cities of Veii, Tarquinia, and Cerveteri. The Etruscans were well-known for their advanced culture, including their unique language, very advanced metalwork, and rich religious traditions. They constructed elaborate tombs and funerary art, including painted tomb walls and sarcophagi with elaborate carvings of the deceased. Etruscan artists worked in materials such as terracotta, bronze, and stone, and they frequently decorated their work with mythological and daily life scenes. Their architecture included temples with tall podiums, deep porches, and brightly colored roof sculptures. Although the Romans later absorbed much of their culture, Etruscan art and religion had a lasting influence on Roman civilization.

Augustus of Prima Porta

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 14:11:25 UTC

The Augustus of Prima Porta is a marble statue constructed to honor the first Roman emperor, Augustus Caesar. It is believed to have been constructed sometime around 30 B.C.. The statue was discovered in Prima Porta near Rome, Italy, in his wife, Livia's villa. Augustus is shown here in a dominant and idealized posture, standing with a military breastplate and raising his right hand in a gesture of leadership or address. It was most likely commissioned to celebrate a diplomatic victory and to depict Augustus as an authoritative, God-granted leader. The statue was carved out of a marble slab, and it stands at a height of 2 meters. The statue combines both the artistic styles of the Romans and Greeks. It has both Roman realism and Greek classical beauty. Notable aspects are the lush relief on his breastplate and the tiny form of Cupid sitting on a dolphin at his leg, which represents his divine descent from Venus. The statue, Augustus of Prima Porta, currently resides in the Vatican Museum and is classified as part of Roman imperial propaganda.

Pantheon

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 14:20:09 UTC

The Pantheon is a colossal temple that was constructed to honor the gods and goddesses. The ancient Roman temple is located in the central part of Rome, Italy. It was rebuilt between 118–125 CE by Emperor Hadrian, replacing an initial temple commissioned by Marcus Agrippa in 27 BCE. Though it was initially constructed to honor the gods, it was later repurposed as a Christian church in the 7th century. It is best known for its giant dome, the largest in the world for centuries, and topped by a central oculus that floods the building with sunlight. The structure was built from concrete, pumice added to the upper section of the dome to reduce its weight, and anchored by massive brick-faced concrete walls. The entrance of the temple is decorated with a classical portico of 16 Egyptian granite Corinthian columns. Today, the Pantheon stands as one of the most preserved ancient Roman structures and continues to serve as a model for architects across the world.

The Colosseum

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 14:26:03 UTC

The Colosseum, often referred to as the Flavian Amphitheater, is a remarkable piece of ancient architecture nestled in the heart of Rome, Italy. It all started with Emperor Vespasian in 70 CE, and his son Titus wrapped up the major work in 80 CE, followed by some additional touches from Emperor Domitian. The Colosseum served as a grand stage for public entertainment, where people gathered to witness gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and even executions. This impressive structure was crafted primarily from concrete, tuff (a unique volcanic rock), and travertine limestone, showcasing the brilliant engineering skills of the Romans. Its design incorporates a series of arches and vaults, which not only add to its strength but also allow for the efficient movement of the crowds. The three tiers of arches are adorned with columns featuring the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian styles, each adding a layer of beauty to its already grand appearance. Today, the Colosseum stands as a symbol of Rome and an enduring reminder of the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

Hagia Sophia

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 16:03:23 UTC

The Hagia Sophia stands as a remarkable testament to architectural innovation and historical significance in Istanbul, Turkey. Originally constructed as a cathedral under the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, its completion in 537 CE marked it as the principal church of Eastern Orthodox Christianity for nearly a millennium. The design, orchestrated by the architects Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus, features an enormous central dome, supported by elegant pendentives—a groundbreaking design element at the time. Notable for its expansive interior, the Hagia Sophia captivates visitors with its stunning golden mosaics and the harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic architectural motifs. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque, during which minarets were added, transforming its silhouette against the sky. In 1935, the Hagia Sophia was secularized and became a museum, showcasing its rich history to the world. However, in 2020, it was reconverted into an operational mosque, further emphasizing its role as a symbol of religious and architectural evolution, intertwined with both Byzantine and Ottoman legacies. It remains a focal point of cultural heritage, representing the dynamic interplay of diverse religions and artistic traditions over centuries.

Justinian Mosaic

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 17:01:14 UTC

Justinian Mosaic is the most celebrated of the Byzantine mosaics discovered in Ravenna's Basilica of San Vitale in Italy. The mosaic was created c. 547 CE and features Emperor Justinian I as the centerpiece, surrounded by churchmen, courtiers, and soldiers. Justinian Mosaic features the holding of the emperor of a dish of gold offering that serves as a sign that he was a religious-political leader. It is made up of tiny pieces of colored stone and glass known as tesserae, arranged together to form elaborate images of rich color and a dazzling sheen. The figures are frontal and two-dimensional, with gold backgrounds typical of Byzantine painting that favored religious power over realism. Justinian has a purple cloak and halo, marking him as Christ and divine authority. This mosaic is typical of the syncretism of church and state in the Byzantine Empire and the bestknown depiction of early Christian art.

Leonardo Da Vinci

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 17:26:48 UTC

Leonardo da Vinci was born on April 15, 1452, in Vinci, Italy. He is known as one of the most important figures of the Renaissance. Da Vinci was skilled in many areas, including painting, sculpture, architecture, science, and invention. Some of his most famous works are the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper." These pieces show his incredible art skills and new techniques. He had a strong curiosity about the world and studied subjects like anatomy, engineering, and plants, making many important discoveries. Da Vinci worked alongside other famous artists like Raphael and Michelangelo during his life. He died on May 2, 1519, but his impact continues. Many artists, scientists, and thinkers still admire his work today. Da Vinci's creations are celebrated for their beauty, creativity, and deep understanding of people and life.

Raphael

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 17:29:28 UTC

Raphael Sanzio, known as Raphael, was an important Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance. He was born on April 6, 1483, in Urbino, Italy. His father, Giovanni Santi, was a court painter, which helped Raphael develop his artistic skills early on. Raphael learned under Pietro Perugino, a well-known painter. He gained recognition for his work quickly. By his twenties, he was already a prominent artist in Florence. In 1508, Pope Julius II invited him to Rome, where he became very famous. During this time, he created some of his best-known works, including the "School of Athens" in the Vatican, famous for its perspective and classical themes. His paintings of Madonnas, like the "Sistine Madonna," were admired for their beauty and emotion. Raphael was also an architect. He contributed to the design of St. Peter's Basilica and other important buildings during the Renaissance. His style changed throughout his life, combining beauty with realistic details, showing human emotions and interactions. Sadly, Raphael died at the young age of 37 on April 6, 1520, in Rome. People mourned his death, and he was buried in the Pantheon. Over time, Raphael has been celebrated as one of the great masters of Western art, influencing many artists and leaving a lasting legacy with his wonderful masterpieces.

Michelangelo

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 17:31:07 UTC

Michelangelo Buonarroti was an Italian Renaissance artist, born on March 6, 1475, in Caprese, Italy. He is best known for his sculpture, painting, and architecture. Michelangelo displayed exceptional artistic talent from a young age and was apprenticed to a painter before dedicating himself to sculpture. One of his most famous works is the statue of David, completed between 1501 and 1504, which represents the ideal of human beauty. He also painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, a monumental work that includes the iconic "Creation of Adam." In addition to his work as a sculptor and painter, Michelangelo was involved in architecture, notably designing the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. He was a key figure in the Renaissance, influencing countless artists and leaving a lasting legacy. Michelangelo passed away on February 18, 1564, in Rome, but his work continues to be celebrated and admired worldwide.

Donatello

stephaniea980 — 2025-05-09 17:34:14 UTC

Donatello was a renowned Italian sculptor of the Renaissance, celebrated for his innovative artistry and mastery of various materials. Born around 1386 in Florence, he was one of the pioneers of Renaissance art, known for his realistic and emotive sculptures. His most famous works include the bronze statue of David, which was the first freestanding nude male sculpture since antiquity, showcasing a new interest in human anatomy and expression. Another significant piece is "Saint George," which highlights his skill in creating dynamic figures and intricate details. Donatello’s techniques, particularly his use of bas-relief and experimentation with perspective, greatly influenced the art of his time and set the groundwork for future artists. He worked with a variety of materials, including marble, terracotta, and bronze, which allowed him to explore different textures and forms. He spent most of his life in Florence, where his work contributed to the flourishing of art and culture during the Renaissance. Donatello's legacy continues to impact artists and sculptors today, as he is often credited with bridging the gap between medieval and modern art. His ability to infuse emotion and life into stone remains a hallmark of his enduring influence.