Thursday, January 30, 2025

Rome, circa 200 AD (what a beauty!)

totalview,
 
view from campus martius

colisseum view,

view from the temple of jupiter, optimus Maximus


the map was commissioned by Mussolini in 1933, and the plaster model was created by archaeologist Italo Gismondi, who worked on the piece throughout his life. The initial core of the scale model was completed for a large exhibition celebrating the 2,000th anniversary of the death of Augustus! In the 1950s; it was installed permanently in the Museum of Roman Civilization, with Gismondi continuing to expand the model up until 1971.

What's the mark here?


1. Arches and Vaults 

The round arch was a staple of Roman engineering, distributing weight efficiently. Barrel vaults and groin vaults allowed for expansive interior spaces. 

2. Domes

The Romans developed massive domes, such as the Pantheon’s dome, which remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. Oculus openings provided light and reduced weight. 

3. Columns and Orders 

While inspired by Greek architecture, Romans modified classical orders, introducing: Tuscan Order (simplified Doric) Composite Order (a mix of Ionic and Corinthian). A new development: Columns were often decorative rather than structural. 

4. Monumentality and Grandeur 

Structures were built to impress and reflect Roman power, such as: Temples (e.g., Temple of Jupiter, Pantheon) Amphitheaters (e.g., Colosseum) Bathhouses (e.g., Baths of Caracalla) Triumphal arches (e.g., Arch of Constantine) 

5. Urban Planning and Infrastructure 

Romans designed well-organized cities with grid layouts, forums, and public spaces. Aqueducts supplied water, while roads (viae) connected the empire efficiently. 

6. Residential Architecture 

Wealthy Romans lived in domus (single-family homes with courtyards). The general population lived in insulae (multi-story apartment blocks). 

7. Decorative Elements 

Walls were often adorned with frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. Public buildings and homes featured coffered ceilings and marble finishes.




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