How was Palladianism different from Neoclassicism?

The primary distinction between Palladianism and Neoclassicism lies in how each movement interpreted and utilized the principles of classical antiquity.

Palladianism is a style rooted in the 16th-century work of Andrea Palladio. It emphasizes rationality, symmetry, and clarity, viewing classical forms through the lens of Renaissance interpretation and Palladio’s own architectural theories, such as his focus on harmonic proportions.1

Neoclassicism, which became the dominant movement by the early 19th century, sought a more direct connection to the ancient world. In Neoclassical architecture, classical forms and details were derived directly from antiquity rather than being filtered through the Renaissance perspective of Palladio. While Palladianism was a significant influence on early Neoclassical developments, the latter is characterized by a broader focus on the logic of entire classical volumes, a preference for simplicity of geometric forms, and a specific emphasis on Greek or Roman details, such as the use of Doric columns and blank walls.12

Essentially, while Palladianism relied on the "Renaissance eyes" of Palladio, Neoclassicism prioritized a more literal, archaeological, and often grander revival of ancient classical architecture.12