The Doric order or styles of columns are the oldest and simplest of the classical styles. The oldest and simplest of the three main orders of classical Roman architecture are characterized by heavy fluted columns with plain, saucer-shaped capitals and base. Doric columns originally placed directly on the ground without a pedestal or base. The shaft is grooved and wider at the bottom. Usually Doric columns have no carvings or other ornaments. The Doric style columns were considered to be able to hold more weight.

The Ionic column, invented by the Asiatic Greeks is more graceful, though not so imposing as the Doric style. Ionic column is more slender and more ornate than the earlier Doric style; an Ionic column has scroll-shaped ornaments on the capital, or top. The Ionic columns create a grand and Classical entrance to the dome. The shaft is fluted and more slender. Ionic columns are characterized by the capital which is formed with two opposed volutes (spiral scrolls) and stands on a base of stacked disks.

Corinthian columns were named after Corinth it’s a city in Greece, developed in Athens and rarely used in Greece, but common in Rome, Italy. The most ornate of the three main orders of classical Greek architecture is Corinthian column. The Corinthian order exhibits a greater refinement and elegance than the other two styles of columns. The Corinthian Roman columns are characterized by slender fluted columns. The capital has an almost bell-shaped capital decorated with acanthus leaves scrolls or flowers. Corinthian Roman columns were often surmounted by a more ornamented entablature.

Developed in ancient Italy, a Tuscan column resembles a Greek Doric column, but it has a smooth shaft that’s usually sets on a simple base and not grooved. Because of their simplicity, Tuscan columns can be found on many 20th century homes and as additions to the facade of other structures. A Tuscan column is plain, without carvings and ornaments. This style of column has round capitals.