Week 3 Flashcards
Urbanism and Public Space and Civic Structures
What is the Cloaca Maxima, and what purpose did it serve in ancient Rome?
“Great Drain,” was a massive sewer system built during the Roman monarchy or early Republic. Designed to prevent flooding of the Tiber River
Describe the religious significance of the Shrine of Cloacina, also known as the Shrine of Venus Cloacina.
The Shrine of Cloacina, or Venus Cloacina, dedicated to Cloacina (Etruscan goddess associated with purification.) Located along the Via Sacra, open-air shrine with a metal balustrade and two statues on a platform, possibly representing Cloacina and Venus.
What was the purpose of the Aqua Appia aqueduct, and how did it contribute to the development of ancient Rome’s water supply?
The Aqua Appia aqueduct, constructed in 312 BCE, supplied water to Rome from the Tiber River. Addressed the city’s need for freshwater, for growing populations, entertainment venues like naumachia, and public baths.
Who was responsible for the construction of the Servian Wall, and what were its key features?
Named after the 6th King of Rome, Servius Tullius, was built during the 4th century BCE as Roman fortifications. Likely had multiple gates, although most have been lost over time.
What historical events prompted the construction of the Aurelian Wall, and what were its characteristics?
Constructed in response to the crisis of the 3rd century CE, marked by invasions, mass migrations, civil wars, and political instability. Emperor Aurelian initiated its construction in the 3rd century CE, enclosing seven hills of Rome, the Campus Martius
Discuss the significance of the Forum Romanum in ancient Rome, including its purpose and layout.
Civic hub of ancient Rome. Served as a marketplace, religious center, and venue for political, social, and commercial activities. Final destination of the Via Sacra and featured numerous temples, basilicas, and public buildings.
What was the purpose of the Via Sacra, and what were some of its key features?
“Sacred way,” was the main street leading through the Forum Romanum. Route for religious processions, triumphs, and public events, leading to the altar outside the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus on the Capitoline Hill. Also various activities and vendor
Describe the significance and function of the Atrium Vestae, also known as the House of the Vestals, in ancient Rome.
Residence for the Vestal Virgins, who were keepers of the sacred flame of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth. This three-story building housed the Vestal Virgins, who played a crucial role in maintaining Rome’s religious rituals and traditions.
Describe the significance and discovery of the Lapis Niger in ancient Rome.
Sacred shrine or stone block located within the Comitium. Dating back to the 8th-7th century BCE, some of the earliest Latin inscriptions and was revered by later Romans despite its original purpose being largely unknown. Early Roman religious practices and beliefs
What was the purpose of the Lacus Curtius, and what historical events or legends are associated with it?
mysterious pool, believed to have connections to the ancient Curtia gens. Included acts of sacrifice, divine intervention, and historical events.
Discuss the architectural and historical importance of the Basilica Aemelia/Paulli in ancient Rome.
Meeting space built in various stages and rebuilt several times with a frieze depicting the history of the Roman Republic. Several fires damaged the structure but remained a significant civic and architectural landmark.
What was the function of the Comitium in ancient Rome, and what activities took place there?
Open-air meeting space primarily for political and judicial activities. Curiate Assembly, consisting of the 30 patrician clans, held meetings/trials. Believed to be the resting place of Romulus.
What is the significance of the Cippus, and where is it located?
“Inscribed marker,” is the location of the oldest document related to the Roman state. Historical artifact in the Comitium, insights into early Roman governance and administration.
Describe the historical development of the Curia in ancient Rome.
Initially housed in the Curia Hostilia, originally an Etruscan temple commemorating the end of the war between Romans and Sabines. Tullus Hostilius replaced this temple with a new civic structure. When built by Gaius Julius Caesar and completed by Augustus (Iulia), featured bronze doors, and interior hall holding approximately 300 Senators.
What was the purpose of the Altar of Victory, and who placed it in the Curia?
Placed by Augustus to celebrate his victory at the battle of Actium in 31 BCE. Symbolized triumph and served as a religious monument in the Curia, commemorating military achievements.
