Fall of Rome

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Architectural Achievements of Rome



System of Paved Roads



Crosswalk, Sidewalk, and Speedbump

Pedestrians can cross without getting feet wet.

Animals pulling carts must walk slowly, straddling the stones.

Gutters and drains keep the street dry.






Aqueducts and Water Supply


Aqueducts bring fresh water to cities.

Water is piped to homes of the wealthy and to public baths.

Fire under the water tank heats bath water.
Exhaust from the fire heats the floor and walls.

Sewers drain waste water away.



The Arch

Distributes weight downward into the columns,
making multi-story buildings possible

Acqueducts  and bridges use a series of arches to support the weight of water.

A vault is an aligned row of arches, making a tunnel or ceiling.


The Dome

A dome is a circular array of arches, making a large interior space possible.