Roman Architecture

• What does the phrase "Immortal glories in my mind revive" refer to in the context of Roman architecture?

  It refers to the lasting impact of Rome's architectural magnificence.
• What are the key characteristics of Roman architecture?

  • Magnificence
  • Vastness
  • Ostentation
  • Ornateness
  • Structural System:Arch, Vault, and Dome
• What is the term for the Roman construction technique using large blocks of stone?


  Opus Quadratum
• What is Opus Incertum?

  A Roman construction technique using irregularly shaped stones.
• What is Opus Reticulatum?

  A Roman construction technique using small, square stones arranged in a net-like pattern.
• What is Opus Testaceum?

  A Roman construction technique using fired bricks, which is triangular in plan
• What is the Tuscan Order in Roman architecture?

  A simplified version of the Doric order of columns.
• What is the purpose of fora (forums) in Roman architecture?


  • Open space for meetings and markets
  • Venue for political demonstrations
  • Surrounded by colonnades
• What is the significance of the Forum Romanum?

  It is a collection of important forum buildings in Rome.
• What are Imperial Forums?

  A series of forums erected by emperors.
• What are the key features of Roman temples?

  • Combination of Greek and Etruscan influences
  • Placed on a podium
  • Pseudo peripteral with engaged columns
  • Rectangular shape facing the forums
• Name one of the largest Roman temples.

  Temple of Mars Ultor
• What is the height of the columns in the Temple of Castor and Pollux?

  17 meters
• What is the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina also known as?

  Temple of Cupid
• What is unique about the Pantheon in terms of its dome?

  It has a perfect sphere dome that remained unchafed until the Renaissance.
• Who built the Pantheon?

  Marcus Agrippa, Emperor Hadrian
• What is the diameter of the Pantheon?

  142 ft
• What is the purpose of the coffered ceiling in the Pantheon?

  To reduce the weight of the dome and enhance aesthetics.
• What are the main functions of a basilica in Roman architecture?

  • Halls of justice
  • Exchanges and trading for merchants
  • Pre-Christian building
• What is the Basilica of Maxentius known for?

  It is the first permanent basilica in Rome.
• What is the purpose of the apodyterium in Roman thermae?


  It is a room for undressing.
• What is the function of the frigidarium in Roman baths?


  It is a cold room with warm water for swimming.
• What is the caldarium in Roman thermae?


  It is a hot room for bathing.
• What is the purpose of the unctuarium?

  It is a cold room for cold water, pommades, and perfumes.
• What is the Baths of Caracalla known for?


  It is a fully developed imperial bath that accommodated 1,600 bathers.
• What is the significance of Trajan's baths?


  They are one of the notable public baths in Rome.
• What are the main features of Roman theatres?

  • Adapted from Greek theatres
  • Rectangular semicircle shape
• What is the primary use of amphitheatres in Roman architecture?

  Used for gladiatorial contests and naval expeditions.
• What is the Coliseum known for?

  It is the first permanent amphitheatre in Rome.
• Who started the construction of the Coliseum?

  Vespasian
• What is the Circus Maximus used for?

  Used for chariot or horse races.
• What are the main types of memorial monuments in Roman architecture?

  • Pillars of Victory
  • Triumphal Arches
  • Columns of emperors
• What is the Column of Marcus Aurelius?


  A memorial column erected to record the triumphs of Marcus Aurelius.
• What is the Arch of Titus known for?

  It commemorates the capture of Jerusalem.
• What is the significance of the Arch of Constantine?

  It is a three-arched type commemorating Constantine's victories.
• What are the different varieties of Roman tombs?

  • Catacombs
  • Loculi
  • Columbaria
  • Monumental Tombs
  • Pyramid Tombs
  • Smaller Tombs
  • Eastern Tombs
  • Cenotaph
• What is the purpose of aqueducts in Roman architecture?


  To supply water to the city.
• What is the Aqua Marcia?

  It is one of the famous Roman aqueducts.
• What is the Pons Cestius?

  It is a Roman bridge.
• What are the main parts of a domus in Roman architecture?

  • Prothyrum
  • Atrium
  • Impluvium
  • Tablinum
  • Fauces
  • Peristyle
  • Cubiculae
  • Triclinium
  • Oecus
  • Alae
  • Kitchen
  • Pantry
  • Shops