Roman Architectural Overview and Influence: – Roman architecture spanned from 509 BC to the 4th century AD. – Roman architecture combined Greek elements with new materials like Roman concrete. – Romans transitioned from trabeated to arch-based construction. – Romans excelled in public buildings, civil engineering, housing, and hygiene. – Roman architecture influenced Western Europe for centuries. – Roman architecture was influenced by Greek architecture and classical orders. – Roman architecture showcased originality during the Imperial period. – Roman architecture reflected political power and individual achievements. – Roman architecture reached its peak during Hadrian’s reign. – Roman architectural elements can be seen worldwide in buildings like the Capitol in Washington, D.C. and Buckingham Palace. Roman Architectural Innovations and Materials: – Roman architecture revolutionized by using arches, vaults, and domes. – Roman concrete enabled monumental architecture and aqueduct construction. – Roman architectural revolution marked by the liberation of shapes from traditional materials. – Roman concrete led to the building of numerous aqueducts and bridges. – Roman concrete was a significant innovation in architecture. – Vaults and arches allowed Romans to create impressive infrastructure. – Roman architecture showcased unprecedented successes in public infrastructure. – Roman architecture served political functions and demonstrated power. – Stone, including marble and travertine, was commonly used in Roman architecture. – Marble was imported from sources like Carrara and Greece for prestigious buildings. – Roman brick replaced sun-dried mudbrick and came in various shapes and sizes. – Roman bricks were used for walls, roofing, and flooring. – Roman concrete became the primary building material due to its strength and versatility. Roman Architectural Building Types: – Roman amphitheatres were used for gladiatorial contests, public displays, meetings, and bullfights. – Amphitheatres were distinct from Roman theatres, circuses, and stadia. – Most Roman amphitheatres were built under Imperial rule, with the largest accommodating up to 40,000-60,000 spectators. – Roman basilicas were large public buildings used for legal and business matters. – After Christianity became the official religion, basilicas were adapted for use as large public churches. – Roman circuses were large venues for chariot racing, horse races, and performances. – Circuses were significant entertainment sites alongside theatres and amphitheatres. – Forums in Roman cities were gathering places of social significance for political discussions and meetings. – Horrea were public warehouses used in ancient Rome for storage. – Insulae were multi-story apartment blocks in Rome. Specific Roman Architectural Structures: – Domes were integrated into various Roman structures like temples, palaces, and churches. – Monumental domes emerged in Rome and surrounding regions from the 1st century BC. – Concrete facilitated dome construction during the Roman architectural revolution. – The size of Roman domes was unmatched until the late 19th century with the introduction of steel frames. – The Amphitheatre of Pompeii was built around 70 BC and buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. – Imperial amphitheatres were built throughout the Roman Empire, featuring elaborate decorations. – Roman horrea stored various consumables besides grain. – Tower of Hercules in Spain is a surviving Roman lighthouse. – Roman cities had public bathhouses called thermae. – Roman temples were crucial in Roman culture. Roman Architectural Influence and Legacy: – Roman architecture influenced Pre-Romanesque, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles. – The Italian Renaissance revived classical Roman styles. – Neoclassical architecture in the 18th century incorporated Greek influences. – Local styles like Palladian and Georgian architecture emerged. – Roman architectural elements can be seen worldwide in buildings like the Capitol in Washington, D.C. and Buckingham Palace.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architecture_of_ancient_Rome