Classical architecture has deep roots in England

‘Elements of classicism re-emerged early in the 16th century in Henry VII’s tomb at Westminster and under Elizabeth I (to name but two examples) at Longleat [pictured above] and Caius, Cambridge,’ writes Colin Armstrong. Photograph: Barry Batchelor/PA

Richard Rogers says classicism is an odd choice of architectural style for the Prince of Wales to promote as it does not have “deep roots in England” (Report, 23 September). Rogers is misinformed. Classical architecture came to Britain with the Romans two millennia ago. Elements of classicism re-emerged early in the 16th century in Henry VII’s tomb at Westminster and under Elizabeth I (to name but two examples) at Longleat and Caius, Cambridge. Four hundred years ago, Inigo Jones introduced the classical style of the Italian Renaissance in an unadulterated form. What deeper roots does Rogers want? Certainly the classical style has deeper roots than his modernism – a mere 80 or so years old in the UK and hardly any more indigenous than the classicism he rejects.
Colin Armstrong
Belfast

• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com

• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters