Roman Style of Architecture
The Romans were among the most prolific builders in the ancient world. Their cities, monuments, and public works are legendary. The Romans produced various styles of architecture that influenced design throughout history. The three main types of engineering were Greek, Etruscan, and Roman. Roman architecture included the Colosseum, Pantheon and Trajan’s Column, works of art that have survived to this day and continue to inspire modern architects.
The Greek Influence in Roman Architecture
The first style of architecture associated with the Romans was the Greek style, which was adopted by the Romans during their conquest of the Greek city-states. The Greeks favored symmetrical and orderly designs, which can be seen in the Parthenon and other Classical Greek buildings. The Romans adopted many of these features, such as placing a main portico in front of a temple and statuary, emphasizing the facade. The Romans, however, were not as strict as the Greeks in their adherence to Classical traditions and often adapted existing Greek designs to suit their own purposes.
The Etruscan Influence in Roman Architecture
The second great influence on Roman architecture came from the Etruscans, the first great civilization on the Italian peninsula. The Etruscans built large cities, some of which still exist today, such as Veii. The Etruscans influenced the Romans through their use of arches and vaults. The Romans adopted the arch from the Etruscans, and were the first to use it in large-scale engineering projects. The vault, an engineering technique developed by the Etruscans, gave the Romans a way to build large domes and caves, and was used extensively in the construction of churches, palaces, and public buildings.
The Roman Legacy
The greatest legacy of Roman architecture is its lasting influence on Western design. Many of the features of Roman architecture, such as the arch, vault and dome, are still used today. Other features, such as the use of columns, niches and cornices, have been adopted and modified by architects in the centuries since the fall of the Roman Empire. The Romans also pioneered the use of concrete and pioneered many building techniques still used today, such as the use of buttresses and arcades.
Techniques for Constructing Roman Architecture
The Romans were master craftsmen when it came to constructing large buildings. They mastered the technique of constructing with concrete and perfected the use of the arch and vault in their structures. The Romans also used an extensive system of roads, aqueducts and bridges to facilitate travel and trade. The Roman system of roads is still seen today in many parts of the world.
Examples of Roman Architecture
The best example of ancient Roman architecture is the Colosseum, one of the most famous of all Roman structures. The Colosseum is an oval arena that was built around 80 AD. It is a testament to Roman engineering skills and is still standing today. Other well-known Roman structures include the Pantheon, a temple dedicated to all the gods of the Roman pantheon, and Trajan’s Column, a monumental victory column.
Influence of Roman Architecture on Modern Architecture
Roman architecture has had an enormous influence on modern architecture. The features of Roman architecture, such as the arch and vault, have been adopted and modified by modern architects. The Colosseum is still an inspiration to architects today, and its elliptical shape is seen in many modern stadiums.
Fascinating Facts about Roman Architecture
The Romans used a kind of mortar called pozzolana, which was made from volcanic ash and lime. This was the secret to the strength of their concrete. The Romans also used arches to support aqueducts and bridges, allowing them to build over long distances. Another fascinating fact is that the Romans used a type of surveying technology called the “geodetic method” to calculate the heights of their buildings.
Philosophy Behind Roman Architecture
The philosophy behind Roman architecture was to create grand civic buildings and monuments that reflected the power of Rome. These structures were built both to awe and to impress, and to symbolize the greatness of the Empire. Roman architecture was not only about functionality and practicality; it was also about making a statement.
Elegance and Balance in Roman Architecture
The Romans were also known for their attention to detail and their appreciation for balance and harmony. Roman architecture was not just about grandeur and power; it was also about beauty and elegance. The Romans often chose building materials not just for their strength, but for their aesthetic value as well. The Colosseum, for example, uses light, white stone to bring out the beauty of its columns and pediments.
