Ancient Romans were among of the world’s first and best engineers.
It developed some outstanding engineering feats that have managed to withstand the test of time such as baths, roads, walls, and theaters.
Normally, engineering was primarily utilized by ancient Romans in catering to their day-to-day needs and in enhancing their specific lifestyles.
Roman Roads
Among the most significant engineering projects that the Romans specialized in include roads which were essential to the military and economy of Rome.
Roman roads enabled faster negotiations between different towns and cities as well as providing the means for the Roman legions to move rapidly.
In spite of the environment, the roads were durable and built to last thanks to the number of concrete layers that were utilized during the construction.
As a matter of fact, most of the roads are still being utilized today as it allowed Italians to use them regardless of the weather.
Aqueducts
Other than roads, ancient Roman engineers also created aqueducts which provided water to forums, households, cities, and public baths.
By simply making use of gravity to distribute water, aqueducts ensured that the city would never run out of water supply.
While the Roman aqueduct system went on to collapse during the Western Empire, popular countries such as Spain and France have adopted water aqueducts to assure an uninterrupted water supply.
Another great example of Roman engineering is the world-renowned Colosseum in Rome.
The Colosseum
The Colosseum which was also known as the Flavian Amphitheater was a large outdoor arena which can cater to about 50,000 audiences.
Despite earthquakes, the Colosseum still stands today and is measured at 615 feet in length and 510 feet in width.
Bridges were also another prime exemplification of excellent Roman engineering.
Most of its bridges are made of an arch, thus, making them long-lasting and durable.
While the Romans were not the first to make use of arches in bridges, they were the first to completely comprehend and capitalize its benefits in bridge construction.
Unlike anyone, Roman engineers pioneered the construction of the bridges that were segmental and semicircular in shapes.
Facts about Roman Engineering
- Ancient Roman Engineers were able to construct more than 400,000 kilometers of roads and over 20 highways that all lead to Rome.
- Romans started building large stone bridges during the second century B.C. Stone blocks were initially utilized to create bridges before the Romans made extensive use of concrete in the middle stages of the second century.
- Concrete was also one of the most important contributions of Roman engineering. It paved the way for engineers to construct buildings that include the Pantheon.
- Rome experienced a period called the Concrete Revolution which witnessed the immediate advances of the composition of concrete.
- The Romans also created mills to not only produce flour but also grind grain. Generally, these mills were made up of a horizontal axle that is attached to a shaft.
- In reference to mills, Roman engineers also constructed a watermill in the mid-third century B.C.E. Water mills came in different types such as a vertical and a horizontal water wheel.
- The Romans were also the first to utilize groundbreaking technology in mining procedures. It made use of water-powered engines such as trip-hammers and stamp mills to ease out the tedious process of mining.
- Weapons and artillery were also among the primary products of Roman engineering. The Romans which were considered as one of the powerful people in the world used both the onager and the ballista during battles.
Q&A
How many bridges were built by Roman Engineers?
Archaeologists and historians estimate that Roman engineers created more than 900 bridges in their empire.
How long are the aqueducts in Rome?
Water aqueducts are normally 640 kilometers in size. The aqueducts in Rome are amounted to be about 500 miles long.
What are sawmills?
Sawmills were invented by Ancient Roman engineers. It is used for cutting stones, wood, and metal ores.
What are the events held in the Colosseum?
Primarily, the Colosseum was a place wherein various forms of entertainment are held such as dramas and plays as well as mock battles and gladiator fights.
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