1.3. Romans

Science made much less progress under the Romans than under the Greeks. The Romans apparently were more practical, and were not as interested in abstract thinking though they were excellent fighters and builders.

The Romans approached engineering quite differently compared to the Greeks. They were more focused on practical applications rather than theoretical concepts. While the Greeks were known for their philosophical advancements, the Romans excelled in building and warfare. This shows a shift in priorities reflecting what was necessary for the empire's expansion and daily functioning.

Think of the difference between a chef who studies cooking techniques and food science versus one who runs a successful restaurant. The chef may understand the theory behind cooking, but the restaurant owner knows how to manage a kitchen and serve customers practically.

As the Roman Empire expanded, the Romans built great roads (some of them still in use) such as the Via Appia, Cassia, Aurelia; Also they built great bridges (such as the third of a mile bridge over the Rhine built by Caesars), and stadium (Colliseum).

During their expansion, the Romans prioritized infrastructure, which was crucial for military and trade movements. They constructed a network of roads and bridges that allowed for quick troop movements and trade routes. The mention of the Via Appia and other important roads highlights their engineering skill and strategic planning.

Consider how modern highways and bridges facilitate trade and connection in a country. Just as Romans built their roads to connect different parts of their empire, today’s infrastructure links cities and states, allowing businesses to thrive.

One of the most notable Roman construction was the Pantheon. It is the best-preserved major edifice of ancient Rome and one of the most significant buildings in architectural history. In shape, it is an immense cylinder concealing eight piers, topped with a dome and fronted by a rectangular colonnaded porch.

The Pantheon is a key example of Roman ingenuity in architecture. Its design features a large cylindrical structure with a domed roof, illustrating their advanced understanding of spatial dimensions and materials. The oculus at the top of the dome not only allows light in but also serves as a structural element, showing how functionality and aesthetics were combined.

When you think about modern sports arenas or large public buildings, you can see parallels to the Pantheon. Just like those structures aim for an impressive look while serving a practical purpose, the Pantheon was both a temple and a visual spectacle that reflected the power of Rome.

The great vaulted dome is 43m (142ft) in diameter, and the entire structure is lighted through one aperture, called an oculus, in the center of the dome. The Pantheon was erected by the Roman emperor Hadrian between AD 118 and 128.

The dome of the Pantheon is not only vast but cleverly designed to be self-supporting, reflecting the Romans’ understanding of geometry. The oculus provides natural light, creating a dynamic interior environment that changes throughout the day. The construction period under Emperor Hadrian indicates the importance placed on this building as a representation of Rome's enduring strength.

Similar to how modern architects design public spaces with skylights to enhance lighting and ambiance, the Romans ingeniously utilized the oculus not just for aesthetics but also for air and light circulation within the vast space of the Pantheon.

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