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Origins of Roman
Architecture
As with sculpture,
the Romans
borrowed heavily
from two cultures
that they
conquered – the
Etruscans and the
Model of an Etruscan
Greeks. Temple
Origins of Roman
Architecture
Elements of Roman architecture show
very significant Greek influence.
However, Roman functional needs
sometimes differed, resulting in
interesting innovations.
The Romans were less attached to
“ideal” forms and extended Greek ideas
to make them more functional.
Architecture
The Maison Carrée at
Nîmes
Romans needed
interior space for
worship, whereas
the Greeks
worshipped outside.
Their solution was
to extend the walls
outward, creating
engaged columns,
while maintaining
the same basic
shape.
Architecture
The Maison Carrée at
Nîmes
Roman Innovation
To the original
Greek orders, the
Romans added
two:
The Tuscan order.
The Composite
order.
Roman Innovation
Tuscan Order:
The Temple of
Fortuna
Primigenia was a
massive
structure, made
possible by
concrete
construction.
Roman Innovation –
Massive Building – Baths
of Caracalla
Roman baths were
the recreation
centers of Roman
cities, incorporating
pools, exercise
facilities and even
libraries.
They could serve
hundreds or
thousands at a time.
Terme di Caracalla
Roman Innovation – The
Arcuated Arch
Romans did
not invent this
form, but they
used it well in
bridges, within
buildings, and
to allow
aqueducts to
span rivers
and gorges.
Roman Innovation –
Composite Walls