The article considers the specifics of architectural perception taking into account the 20th -21st century phenomenological concepts in art studies. The distinctive feature of the spatial-temporal continuum of architectural structures is shown. Not only does the author compare architectural composition with «frozen music» or «silent melody» but also correlates it with the theatre, cinema and even ballet. Such comparisons prove to be possible based on studies of architectonic rhythm and plasticity and the movement of the spectator in the scenic space created by architecture. Therefore not only space but also time are major form-building factors in architectural composition. These positions are illustrated by examples from the history of classical Italian architecture.