Arches

Definition

Arches are curved structures that span an opening and support weight above them, typically made from stone or brick. They were a significant architectural innovation in ancient Rome, allowing for the construction of larger and more durable buildings, as well as the development of complex urban infrastructures, such as aqueducts and bridges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The use of arches in Roman architecture allowed for more complex and larger structures, like the Colosseum and various public baths.
2. Arches distributed weight efficiently, reducing pressure on walls and enabling the creation of open interior spaces without the need for many supporting columns.
3. Romans used various types of arches, including semicircular and pointed arches, depending on the design and structural requirements of the building.
4. The development of the arch was critical in constructing aqueducts, which supplied cities with fresh water from distant sources.
5. Roman engineering techniques for arches influenced later architectural styles, paving the way for innovations during the Renaissance and beyond.

Review Questions

• How did the development of arches influence Roman architecture and urban planning?
  • The development of arches revolutionized Roman architecture by enabling the construction of larger and more complex structures. Arches allowed builders to create expansive interior spaces without relying heavily on columns, leading to iconic buildings such as the Pantheon. In urban planning, arches facilitated the construction of essential infrastructures like aqueducts, which transported water efficiently across varying landscapes, significantly improving public health and urban life.
• Discuss the engineering principles behind arches and how they contributed to the durability of Roman structures.
  • Arches operate on key engineering principles such as compression and weight distribution. The keystone at the top of an arch plays a critical role in locking all other stones into place and helping distribute weight evenly across the structure. This allows arches to support significant loads while minimizing material use. As a result, Roman structures like amphitheaters and basilicas could withstand the test of time due to these advanced engineering techniques.
• Evaluate the impact of Roman arch technology on subsequent architectural developments throughout history.
  • Roman arch technology had a profound impact on later architectural developments, influencing styles during the Renaissance and even modern times. The principles behind arches informed the construction of cathedrals, bridges, and monumental structures across Europe. As architects studied Roman techniques, they adapted them for new materials like steel and concrete, leading to innovations such as reinforced concrete arches. This ongoing legacy demonstrates how Roman engineering not only shaped their own cities but also laid foundational principles for future generations.

Related terms

Keystone: The central stone at the top of an arch that locks all the other stones in place, distributing weight and providing stability to the structure.

Vault: An extension of the arch that forms a roof or ceiling, enabling the construction of vast interior spaces in Roman buildings like basilicas and baths.

Aqueduct: A bridge-like structure built to transport water from one location to another, utilizing a series of arches to maintain a steady gradient.