Some of the most impressive architectural achievements of the ancient world are still standing, a testament to the cultural, aesthetic and social values of the people and civilizations that built them. Kids can participate in craft projects that focus on ancient architectural feats to help them better understand the history and function of architecture.
Mini Pyramids
Giant pyramids were built by ancient Egyptians in the deserts of northern Africa as religious temples and tombs, and today more than 90 royal pyramids can still be seen. Explain to children how it took thousands of people decades to build these perfectly symmetrical pyramids out of huge stone blocks while they construct small model pyramids out of paper or cardboard. You can easily find free instructions and templates from online sources like DLTK-Kids to make this craft easier for kids.
Great Wall Replica
The Great Wall of China is the world's largest man-made architectural achievement, and it was constructed in separate pieces over a period of 1,700 years to ward off northern invaders. Help kids gain a better understanding of what it took to build China's Great Wall by having them create a miniature replica piece by piece out of cardboard boxes, tubes and construction paper. Crayola offers free online instructions on how to build a small version of China's Great Wall, which runs for more than 4,000 miles east to west.
Greek Parthenon Recreation
The Parthenon of ancient Greece remains one of the most impressive examples of classic Greek architecture. It was one of the first buildings constructed using a combination of Doric and Ionic-order columns. Built as a tribute to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens, the Parthenon has watched over the capital of Greece for more than 2,000 years from the top of the Acropolis. Canon offers free patterns and assembly instructions for kids on how to make a replica of the ancient Greek Parthenon, and by putting together a miniature version of Greece's most famous building, kids will get a glimpse of how the Parthenon looked before falling into decay.
Mini Colosseum
The Colosseum has been an iconic symbol of Italy since its original construction during the height of the Roman Empire. Elliptical in shape, the Colosseum is 188 meters at its widest point and stands 48 meters tall, and it was built to accommodate at least 45,000 spectators who would come to see chariot races, gladiator battles and other events. Kids can find free online instructions on how to make a miniature replica of Rome's Colosseum so they can admire their own version of Italy's most famous amphitheater.
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Writer Bio
Melissa Sherrard acquired her Bachelor of Science in public relations from the University of Florida in 2007 and has been writing professionally ever since. She also has extensive hands-on experience planning weddings and other private functions. She has created original print materials including announcements, invitations and programs for weddings, corporate events and private functions.
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