Geometry and Ancient Civilization

Geometry and Ancient Civilization

This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.
Dalai Lama

Ta Prohm
Ta Prohm _ Click to Enlarge

Imagine the geometry used in the design and construction of the ancient temples and cathedrals of the world such as Ta Phrom, seen above, one of the Khmer temples at Angkor. The Khmer civilization flourished between the 8th and 13th centuries. During this time hundreds of large and intricately carved temples were built.

At about the same time, other civilizations were busy with their own temple and cathedral building. Competing to build the largest cathedral, and most importantly, the tallest spires raged across Europe. In 1163 the cornerstone was laid for Notre Dame de Paris. The Incas and Mayans were busy temple building as well.  Chichen Itza, the Mayan temple and city in the Yucatan in Mexico was built during the tenth century. Machu Picchu, high in the Peruvian Andes, construction was started about 1430 by the Incans.

I find it fascinating that such immense temple building was going on in different parts of the world simultaneously by different cultures who had no idea of each other’s existence.

Be sure to see how other great minds see geometry.

Ron Mayhew

Fine Art Photographer specializing in Still Life and Commercial Photography.

This Post Has 11 Comments

  1. Yes, that is a fascinating thought, Ron. I never thought about that before. 🙂 Love the Dalai Lama quote.

    1. Yes, I thought the Dalai Lama quote was a nice juxtaposition to all the other temple building cultures/religions

  2. Isn’t it remarkable…? It shows we have a universal intelligence that is beyond the human mind…

  3. Beautiful photo and nice short story. I do enjoy your article. 🙂

  4. I absolutely love the quote you have used. I can hear you saying it … 🙂 My love to you all … 🙂

    1. Well, it does sum up my feelings. Thank you and our love to you an Peter.

  5. Great readingg your blog post

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