The Temple of Hera at Olympia features a peripteral design characterized by a distinctive arrangement of columns. In this case, the correct answer, which states that the temple has 6 columns along the front (the short side) and 16 columns along the sides (the long side), is notable because it aligns with the typical proportions and structural aesthetics of ancient Greek temples.
The peripteral design refers to a temple surrounded by a single row of columns, which creates a continuous colonnade contributing to the temple’s grandeur and symmetry. By having six columns at the front and sixteen along the sides, the design achieves a harmonious proportion that was favored in classical Greek architecture. The number of columns significantly influences how light enters the temple and the overall visual rhythm of the building.
The configuration of 6x16 showcases the Doric order's characteristics prominently, where the simplicity and elegance of the columns support the entablature above, while also establishing a sense of order and balance that is vital in Greek architectural philosophy. This configuration also reflects the temple's purpose as a space for worship and its emphasis on beauty and proportion.