What historical examples of marble Nature-themed Sculptures exist in classical architecture?

Throughout classical architecture, marble nature-themed sculptures have served as profound expressions of humanity's relationship with the natural world, blending artistic mastery with symbolic depth. In Ancient Greece, the Parthenon's marble friezes (447-432 BC) depicted mythological narratives surrounded by intricate botanical motifs like acanthus leaves and olive branches, symbolizing Athena's divine protection. Roman architecture advanced this tradition with elaborate marble sarcophagi featuring detailed vine scrolls, fauna, and seasonal personifications—such as those in the Vatican Museums—representing cycles of life and death. The Renaissance revived these themes magnificently; Bernini's "Apollo and Daphne" (1622-1625) captured Daphne's metamorphosis into a laurel tree with breathtaking realism, embodying Baroque dynamism. Similarly, Renaissance palaces often incorporated marble reliefs of river gods and floral garlands, echoing classical precedents. These sculptures transcended decoration, conveying cultural values, mythological allegories, and a timeless reverence for nature’s beauty, ensuring their legacy as cornerstones of art history.