Roman Architecture

Overview

• Falls under classical architecture from 5th Century BCE in Greece to 1st Century CE in Rome.
• Combination of Greek techniques and their own innovations.
• Significant structures: Pantheon, Coliseum, aqueducts, Library of Celsus.

Characteristics of Roman Architecture

• Grandeur and artistic beauty with:
  • Pristine walls adorned with paint, mosaics, and sculptures.
  • Shift in style after the collapse of the Western Roman Empire.
• Drop in architectural standards and abandonment of many structures during invasions.

Development Timeline

• Evolved from the Roman Republic (509 BCE) to the Roman Empire (476 CE).
• Innovations:
  • Introduction of concrete as a new building material.
  • Use of arches, borrowed from Greek architecture.
  • Classical orders on columns: Doric, Ionic, Corinthian, Tuscan, Composite.

Importance of Arches and Vaults

• Arches were used since the second millennium BCE in Mesopotamian architecture.
• Romans learned to distribute weight evenly, allowing for large structures.
• Aqueducts: Built to transport water, showcasing the arch's utility.
• Coliseum: Noted for its structural integrity and ability to hold large audiences.

Vaults and Domes

• Vault: A self-supporting arch structure, allows large open interiors without support columns.
• Dome: Evolved from the arch, known for enclosing large spaces without internal support.
• Example: Pantheon - an extraordinary use of the dome.

Classical Orders of Columns

• Columns symbolize strength and triumph.
• Comprised of three main parts:
  • Capital: Top of the column.
  • Shaft: Body of the column.
  • Base: Foundation supporting the column.
• Roman addition of Tuscan and Composite orders to the original three (Doric, Ionic, Corinthian).

Architectural Elements

• Entablature: Horizontal structure resting on columns, divided into:
  • Cornice
  • Frieze
  • Architrave
• Materials used included stone, wood, brick, and notably, concrete modified with volcanic ash (pozzolana).

Conclusion

• Roman architecture is a testament to human intellectual capability.
• Influenced generations and showcased innovative engineering and artistic grandeur.