Final answer:
The panels between triglyphs in the Doric frieze are known as metopes, used for painted or sculpted decorations often depicting mythological scenes with cultural significance to the temple site.
Step-by-step explanation:
The panels, either plain or decorated, between triglyphs in the Doric frieze are known as metopes. The Doric frieze is distinguished by its alternating panels of triglyphs, which are decorative panels with three vertical grooves, and metopes. Metopes are the square spaces used for either painted or sculpted decorations. In Doric temple architecture, metopes often depict mythological occurrences and carry a cultural significance to the location of the temple. Not only do they serve an aesthetic purpose, but they also reflect historical or cultural narratives relevant to the site.
In the context of Greek temple architecture, sculptors used the metope spaces creatively to capture and display mythological stories, thereby enhancing the visual storytelling aspect of the structures. Through their designs in the metopes, artists were able to contribute to the overall message and meaning of the temples.