Ancient Roman Architecture: Classic Elegance that Transcends Modern Frivolities
The Roman Empire ruled from 509 BC to AD 330. Early Roman art were inspired by its predecessor, the Etruscan civilization. As the latter spread in popularity, the distinct Romanian design was developed—born from the art of various classes, from kings to tradesmen to slaves.
The ancient roman architecture reflected everything traditional. The very foundation behind the designs was based on ancient rituals, beliefs and practices. To put it simply, the Romans back then use their rites as their architectural inspiration. This explains why the basilicas later on, along with the Roman arenas were adorned by Christian art.
Ancient Roman architecture were fond of marbles, this is especially visible to their places of worship and halls of governance. This was largely because the first Roman architects were priests, so the religious leaders wanted to build a place befitting of divine commands. They wanted something that reflected command, something that says, “This is the place where divine works occur.”
Because ancient Roman architecture was predominantly both Etruscan and Greek, they relied heavily on plaster and brick to build their structures. The ancient roman architecture also popularized the series of panels built to encompass cities or domes. Roman theaters architectural frameworks were semicircular, with a high stage building adjoined to a semicircular orchestra as well as a seating area.
An outline of columns and vaults supports these theater seats. This is in contrast to the original Greek theaters, which relied heavily on natural slopes. This type of framework allowed ancient Roman theaters to be built within the hearts of their majestic cities. Amphitheaters like the Colosseum were elliptical in nature, composed of a central arena as well as a surrounding seating area much like the Roman theaters.
When Rome became the ultimate power, much of the world’s architecture was built to resemble theirs. This newly introduced ancient roman architecture art was also the origin of the monumental avenue, amphitheater, and public baths. It was also around this era that the theater, the race track, and the Coliseum were constructed.
Rome, despite its wealth was no stranger to corruption. Like many nations today, it was a place wherein wealth was concentrated on the selected few, and majority of the populace was forced to live in poverty. Houses were one of the things that were exclusive to the rich Romans alone. The less fortunate citizens were forced to live in collective dwellings or condominiums as we may now call it. Of course back then, their idea of a condominium was much different. GP
Posted in Ancient Roman Architecture on September 21, 2008 - 11:39 pm by admin |
