This cross-cultural historical study examines the ways in which architectural form has been influenced by ventilation needs. Topics covered include: the effect on ventilationof the need for illumination; the problem of smoke-filled interiors; and fresh air supply and its circulation. Of particular interest is a discussion of how the Greeks utilized a porous stone pedestal and a water-filled trench to control the environment of the Parthenon cella in which PhidiaN2 ivory statue of Athena stood.