Doric order : DAW-rik

Architectural style presumably developed on the Greek mainland and in southern Italy and Sicily. Although the Doric order is traditionally credited with slightly pre-dating the Ionic order, both orders were established by the end of the seventh century. Doric columns are slightly tapered, simple, and sturdy and have no base. Shallow, parallel groves (flutes) run from the bottom to the top of the shaft. The Doric capital consists of two parts, a round echinus and a square abacus. Above the capital is the architrave consisting of an unadorned beam supporting a frieze of alternating triglyphs (vertical, weight supporting blocks with three vertical grooves) and metopes (non-load bearing panels either decorated with relief sculpture or left plain). A simple cornice molding at the top of the architrave extends to protect the parts below from rain.