Vault

Definition

A vault is an architectural structure that forms a ceiling or roof over a space, created by the arching of materials such as stone, brick, or concrete. This construction technique allows for the spanning of large areas without the need for columns, providing both strength and aesthetic appeal. Vaults can be found in various forms, including barrel, groin, and ribbed vaults, each contributing to the grandeur and functionality of Roman architecture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Romans perfected the use of vaults, allowing them to construct larger and more complex structures like basilicas and amphitheaters.
2. Barrel vaults are formed by extending a single arch along a length, creating a tunnel-like space that was frequently used in Roman baths.
3. Groin vaults are created by the intersection of two barrel vaults, effectively increasing the height and complexity of the interior space.
4. Ribbed vaults feature a framework of ribs that support the vault surface, allowing for lighter materials to be used and enabling decorative elements.
5. The use of vaults not only provided structural integrity but also allowed for impressive artistic expressions in frescoes and mosaics on the ceilings of public buildings.

Review Questions

• How did the use of vaults transform Roman architecture compared to earlier architectural techniques?
  • The introduction of vaults revolutionized Roman architecture by enabling builders to span larger spaces without relying heavily on columns for support. This shift allowed for more open and expansive interiors in structures like temples, basilicas, and public baths. The ability to create vaulted ceilings also led to new aesthetic possibilities, showcasing elaborate designs and decorative elements that elevated the overall grandeur of Roman buildings.
• Discuss the different types of vaults used in Roman architecture and their specific applications in construction.
  • Romans utilized several types of vaults, including barrel, groin, and ribbed vaults. Barrel vaults were commonly employed in long hallways and baths due to their simplicity and strength. Groin vaults emerged from the intersection of two barrel vaults, allowing for larger spaces in churches and public buildings. Ribbed vaults provided structural support while allowing for thinner materials to be used, often seen in more ornate settings such as cathedrals where decorative elements were crucial.
• Evaluate the impact of Roman engineering innovations in vault construction on later architectural developments during the Renaissance and beyond.
  • Roman engineering innovations in vault construction laid the groundwork for future architectural advancements during the Renaissance and beyond. The mastery of concrete and arch techniques enabled architects like Brunelleschi to design grand domes, such as the one atop Florence Cathedral. The revival of classical forms during the Renaissance was heavily influenced by Roman architectural principles, with vaulting techniques being integral to achieving harmony and balance in larger structures. These innovations ultimately shaped Western architecture through the ages, influencing styles well into modern times.

Related terms

Arch:

A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight above it, serving as the fundamental element in the construction of vaults.

Concrete:

A building material made from a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates, used extensively by Romans for creating durable vaults and structures.

Dome: A rounded vault that typically forms the ceiling of a circular space, often seen in Roman architecture as a way to create expansive interior spaces.