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Achievement Quote by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

“It is not architectural achievement that makes the structures of earlier times seem to us so full of significance but the circumstance that antique temples, Roman basilicas, and even the cathedrals of the Middle Ages are not the works of single personalities but creations of entire epochs.” quote by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
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“It is not architectural achievement that makes the structures of earlier times seem to us so full of significance but the circumstance that antique temples, Roman basilicas, and even the cathedrals of the Middle Ages are not the works of single personalities but creations of entire epochs.”

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

About This Quote

Source Essay: Architectural History, 1947

Historical structures gain significance not from single creators but from the collective spirit of their era.

In simple terms: Epochs shape architecture more than individuals.

Key Takeaway

Study cultural context of buildings.

Themes

architecture history collective creation

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

academic historical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • heritage preservation

Key Concepts

cultural influence epochal style

Questions to Reflect On

  • What societal factors defined a given era?
  • How does collective effort manifest in design?
A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on individuals may overlook broader forces.

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