Vault system

Definition

A vault system is an architectural method used to create a ceiling or roof structure that spans an area, often resulting in large, open spaces. This technique allowed the Romans to build impressive public buildings and infrastructures, such as basilicas and baths, enhancing urban environments with monumental architecture that supported civic life and social interaction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Roman vault system included various types such as barrel vaults, groin vaults, and ribbed vaults, each providing different structural advantages.
2. Vaults allowed for greater spatial flexibility in architectural design, making it possible to create larger interior spaces without the need for numerous supporting columns.
3. The use of concrete in combination with the vault system revolutionized Roman architecture, enabling the construction of more complex and grand structures.
4. Public amenities like baths often utilized the vault system to create vast halls and spaces for communal activities, reflecting the importance of social interaction in Roman culture.
5. The influence of the Roman vault system extended beyond their empire, impacting architectural practices in later periods, including the Renaissance and modern architecture.

Review Questions

• How did the vault system contribute to the overall urban infrastructure of Roman cities?
  • The vault system was crucial in shaping urban infrastructure by allowing for larger and more complex public buildings, such as basilicas and baths. This architectural innovation enabled Romans to create expansive interior spaces that could accommodate social gatherings and public events. As a result, cities became centers of civic life where people could engage in various activities, fostering a sense of community and enhancing urban living.
• Discuss the significance of different types of vaults in Roman public amenities and their impact on architectural design.
  • Different types of vaults, such as barrel and groin vaults, played significant roles in Roman public amenities by offering innovative solutions for creating large spaces without excessive support columns. For example, barrel vaults provided long hallways in baths that facilitated movement and socializing. The adaptability of these vault types not only enhanced functionality but also allowed architects to express aesthetic values through grand designs, leading to more visually striking urban landscapes.
• Evaluate how the Roman vault system influenced later architectural developments throughout history.
  • The Roman vault system set foundational principles for future architectural developments by demonstrating how to effectively use space and materials like concrete. Its impact can be seen in later styles such as Renaissance architecture, which embraced classical elements including vaulted ceilings. As architects sought to combine functionality with grandeur, the techniques established by Roman builders paved the way for innovations in Gothic cathedrals and even modern skyscrapers, illustrating a lasting legacy that continues to inform contemporary design.

Related terms

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

Basilica: A large public building used for legal and other civic proceedings, often featuring a central nave flanked by aisles and covered by a vaulted roof.

Coffer: A sunken panel in a ceiling or vault, often used decoratively and to reduce the weight of the structure while maintaining strength.