The Doric column is the simplest of the three columns. It was also the earliest made, around 600 B.C. It has 20 flutes that meet at the top and a flat capital, or top piece.
Most easily recognized by its volutes (the scrolls), the Ionic column is a bit fancier than its predecessor, the Doric. The shafts were more slender because they were longer. The design dates from the fifth century B.C.
The Corinthian column is the fanciest of the three and the most recent. It is identified by the leaves that adorn the capital and dates from the second century B.C.. This design is very popular with architecture today.