Ancient Rome

Question 1

Why were aqueducts important to Rome?

Answer 1

Provided water supply from outside of the city. Three tiers of stone arches 160’ high bring water from over 25 miles away. Sloped to have water travel from the source to the city. Built first using a wood frame, removed once the keystone was placed. Aqueducts and sewers served indoor plumbing for public baths and private houses, creating a highly developed urban infrastructure.

Question 2

What is the important Roman timeline?

Answer 2

Founding of the city of Rome: 753 BCE
Roman Kingdom: 753-509 BCE
Roman Republic: 509-27 BCE
Roman Empire: 27 BCE – 476 CE

Question 3

How did the Romans utilize concrete and its makeup?

Answer 3

A stiff mixture of aggregate (sand, gravel), binder, and water poured into wood or brick forms –strong, waterproof, monolithic. Covered with brick or marble veneer, or a decorative stucco.

Question 4

Define verism.

Answer 4

Verus is Latin for “true.” Roman Republic tradition… Some attributes of the Hellenistic Greek style.
Exaggeration of age, nobility, experience, and wisdom, has a solemness and authoritative quality to it.

Question 5

Is the Augustus of Primaporta idealistic or naturalistic?

Answer 5

Idealistic. More youthful and athletic.

Question 6

Define Roman Domus’ and their atrium features.

Answer 6

Domus are Urban Houses.
Atrium plan… Rooms open on courtyards for access to light and air. Blank walls to street; could include shops. Covered colonnade, open above impluvium (water basin).