
The art and science of creating structures with both functional and aesthetic standards is known as architecture.
Through its design, materials, and construction methods, architecture physically embodies a community's values, customs, beliefs, and history, and so expresses cultural identity. Buildings create and preserve a sense of collective memory and belonging by acting as a visual narrative of a society's history, reflecting everything from political and religious beliefs to daily life and practical requirements.
It's likely that when you think of any city in the globe, you instantly think of a famous skyline or structure, such as the pyramids in Egypt, Gaudí's Sagrada Família in Barcelona, the Taj Mahal in India, or the Inca fortress of Machu Picchu in Peru. The term "genius loci," which translates to "spirit of a place," refers to this cultural distinctiveness.
Some aspects of culture are purely decorative, but architectural forms are frequently both functional and artistic, providing not only beauty but also longevity and purpose.
Many cultural manifestations are stand-alone products. However, architecture is nearly always viewed in relation to its surroundings. The Golden Temple of Kyoto, the Sydney Opera House, and the Parthenon in Athens are a few examples of buildings that are influenced and enhanced by their environments.
Whether communal, nomadic, agrarian, or island, vernacular architecture—such as a southern African rondavel, an Inuit igloo, or a Mongolian yurt—is unique to a particular period and location, uses local materials, and reflects the climate and way of life of the local population.
It should come as no surprise that our cultural identity is reflected in the places where we live, work, and consider "home".
Groundbreaking Geniuses of Architectural Styles

Insights on the Gaudi Architecture from Sculptor Luis Gueilburt
The architecture of Gaudi enthralls everyone from wide-eyed children to the most sophisticated scholars.
Glasgow Architecture Influenced by Charles Rennie Mackintosh
Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s architecture is explored in this interview with curator Peter Trowles on the influence of Mackintosh and Art Nouveau.
Architectural Styles of Pioneering Eco Architects
Simon Velez, Colombian Architect on the Culture of Bamboo
Meet Bogota resident, Simon Velez, who shares his views on eco-architecture & politics of building with "poor people's wood" or bamboo.

Kenyan Hitesh Mehta Ecoarchitect and the Web of Life
Hitesh Mehta is the director of HM Design, one of the world’s leading authorities, practitioners and researchers on ecotourism physical planning.
Architectural Styles Evolved from Cultural Fusion
Alhambra of Granada History and Symbolism Revealed by Insider
The Alhambra of Granada is a spectacular Moorish palace in Spain. Blanca, an insider with a connection to its past, shares its secrets.
Persian Architecture’s Majestic Traditions Revealed
Persian architecture has a distinctive style and techniques of building influenced by religion, mythology, and art.
Ljubljana Architecture Reveals City’s Cultural Influences
Ljubljana architecture reflects the city’s history as a cultural crossroads. Learn its architectural heritage with a Slovenian architect.

Old Quebec Features Unique Architecture and Cultural Influences
Old Quebec history is best understood through its unique architecture which reveals the story of the city’s cultural influences.
Monreale Cathedral in Sicily Melds Fatimid and Byzantine Cultures
Monreale Cathedral owes its existence to the 12th-century cultural fusion of Norman ambition, Fatimid architecture and Byzantine mosaics.





