Round arches

Definition

Round arches are architectural features that consist of a semi-circular shape, often used to support structures and create openings in walls. These arches have been a hallmark of various architectural styles, particularly in Roman and Romanesque designs, where they contribute to the aesthetic and structural integrity of buildings. Their strength and simplicity made them a favorite among architects, allowing for expansive interior spaces and visually striking facades.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Round arches were fundamental in Roman engineering, enabling the construction of large bridges and aqueducts due to their ability to distribute weight efficiently.
2. In the context of Romanesque Revival, architects like Henry Hobson Richardson embraced round arches as a key feature to evoke historical styles while incorporating modern techniques.
3. Round arches can be seen in various materials, including stone, brick, and concrete, showcasing their versatility across different architectural movements.
4. The aesthetic appeal of round arches allows for decorative elements such as voussoirs (wedge-shaped stones) and keystones that enhance their visual impact.
5. The revival of round arches during the Romanesque Revival marked a return to traditional craftsmanship and inspired a new appreciation for historical forms in American architecture.

Review Questions

• How did round arches influence the design and structural integrity of buildings in the Romanesque period?
  • Round arches played a crucial role in the design of buildings during the Romanesque period by providing not only aesthetic appeal but also structural strength. They allowed architects to create wider spans and taller ceilings while distributing weight evenly across supporting walls. This innovation enabled the construction of larger cathedrals and public buildings, which became symbols of power and faith in medieval society.
• Discuss how Henry Hobson Richardson incorporated round arches into his architectural style and their significance in the Romanesque Revival.
  • Henry Hobson Richardson skillfully integrated round arches into his designs, using them as defining elements in many of his works. This incorporation was significant as it represented a conscious return to historic architectural forms during the Romanesque Revival. By blending traditional round arches with modern materials and techniques, Richardson's work not only celebrated past styles but also established a distinct American identity in architecture.
• Evaluate the impact of round arches on both functional design and artistic expression within American architecture during the 19th century.
  • The use of round arches in 19th-century American architecture had a profound impact on both functional design and artistic expression. Functionally, these arches provided stability and allowed for expansive interiors in public buildings and homes. Artistically, they became a symbol of the Romanesque Revival movement, representing a romantic nostalgia for medieval craftsmanship. This combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal influenced future architectural styles and contributed to a diverse landscape of American architecture.

Related terms

Romanesque architecture: A style of architecture characterized by semi-circular arches, thick walls, and sturdy piers, prevalent in Europe during the 10th to 12th centuries.

Gothic architecture: An architectural style that emerged in the late Middle Ages, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses for increased height and light.

Architrave: The lowest part of an entablature that rests on top of columns, often decorated and significant in classical architecture.