Foreword
It is with great enthusiasm that we announce the results of the Timeless Edifices: History of Architecture Essay 2024 competition, an initiative by Archiol Competitions. This event has been a celebration of architectural history, bringing together brilliant minds from across the globe to explore the enduring beauty, profound significance, and cultural narratives of our built heritage.
Architecture is much more than bricks and mortar; it is a reflection of human ambition, creativity, and resilience throughout the ages. This competition challenged participants to peel back the layers of history, uncovering the stories behind iconic edifices and examining the transformative power of architecture on civilizations past and present.
The essays submitted were remarkable in their depth, originality, and insight. From tracing the evolution of architectural styles to analyzing the cultural imprints of ancient structures, the participants illuminated the connections between our architectural past and our collective future. Their work underscores the importance of preserving, understanding, and learning from these timeless edifices that continue to inspire.
This Essay competition received 41 entries from around the world.
Scroll down to check out the winners.
Top 3
FIRST
Valerie de V
Russia
SECOND
Sejal Ranka
India
THIRD
Nikitha Madhavan & Preksha Udupa
India
FIRST PRIZE WINNER
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Reaching for the Heavens. The Architectural Artistry of the Pantheon
Valerie de V
Russia
JURY COMMENTS
“This essay effectively highlights the Pantheon's cultural, architectural, and symbolic significance. It balances historical details with philosophical insights. The writing is rich in description and analysis, though it could be more concise in some areas. Excellent exploration of the Pantheon’s influence on later architecture.”
SECOND PRIZE WINNER
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Through The Rock
Sejal Ranka
India
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay provides a thorough exploration of the Kailash Temple's historical, architectural, and cultural significance. It effectively links the structure to broader themes of timelessness and human achievement in architecture. The writing is insightful, with clear connections made between the temple’s form and its cultural context. A more concise conclusion could strengthen the overall impact. Great depth and clarity!”
THIRD PRIZE WINNER
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The Eternal Dance of Stone and Spirit
Nikitha Madhavan & Preksha Udupa
India
JURY COMMENTS
“A beautifully descriptive essay that captures the grandeur and spiritual significance of the Brihadeshwara Temple. The writing is evocative, blending historical, architectural, and cultural elements. A clearer focus on some architectural specifics could enhance its academic depth. Nonetheless, a compelling and engaging read.”
SPECIAL MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
Honorable Mention
Shreya Deb Roy
India
Meenal Jain
India
Aidira Smailova, Aziza Komilova
U.K.
HONOURABLE MENTION
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Built to Last: A Historical Perspective on Architecture's Enduring Marvels
Shreya Deb Roy
India
JURY COMMENTS
HONOURABLE MENTION
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Chand Baori: A Timeless Tapestry of Architecture Weaving Cultures and Societies
Meenal Jain
India
JURY COMMENTS
HONOURABLE MENTION
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Atlantis Reborn: The Unexpected Symphony of Nature and Industry
Aidira Smailova, Aziza Komilova
U.K.
JURY COMMENTS
HONOURABLE MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
HONOURABLE MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
Shortlisted Entries
1. Sikh Architecture: a journey through sacred spaces and resilience
Parmeet Kaur
India
2. The Hanging Temple: A Timeless Masterpiece of Faith, Architecture, and Innovation
Tanushree Sharma
India
3. Sixty Dome Mosque: A Tropical Poetry of Land, Water and People
Md Toukir Hossain
Bangladesh
4. The Parthenon: “an eternal symbol of ancient Greek brilliance”
Aadya Sharma
India
5. Beauty Though the Ages: Timeless Allure of Architectural Masterpieces. (Case of Old Dispensary Building)
Einoth Molelly
Tanzania
6. Dhakeshwari Temple: A Journey Through Time and Architectural Transformation
Tunisha Kuri
Bangladesh
7. Schloss Nymphenburg
Ramona Ramsey
Germany
Announcement in Media
Organizers
