Roman Architecture: Similarities Between Roman And Present Day Architecture

The innovations of ancient Roman architecture have stood the test of time. From the invention of concrete, to the round arch and the coliseum, the genius of Roman enterprise has clearly been demonstrated. Romans built structures for various reasons, including entertainment, administrative, and memorial purposes. Today, many structures are built for the same purposes, some using many hallmarks of Roman architecture. Though this is true, many of the differences between Roman architecture and modern day architecture are vast. The following examples will provide background information as well as further illustration of the significant similarities and differences between architecture of the two time periods. The use of the round arch on the …show more content…
This temple features a row of steps leading up to a porch, both free standing and engaged columns, and an inner sanctuary room all atop a raised podium. Created in a similar fashion, there stands the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. Dedicated to Abraham Lincoln in 1922, this memorial’s creation differs in the fact that its birth was inspired by a mortal man, rather than a god; a symbol of gratitude and reverence, and not an offering to garner blessings for the future. Be that as it may, the Lincoln Memorial immortalizes Abraham Lincoln in a nineteen foot tall marble statue that is seated just inside the building. Other physical characteristics of the Lincoln Memorial that differ from those of the Ancient Roman’s temple are its size and number of columns, and the absence of engaged columns from the design. The Lincoln Memorial has a total of thirty-six free standing columns enclosing the structure, while the Ancient Roman temple has only six (www.washintondc-go.com). Both buildings have steps leading up to a dominating porch, and are built atop a raised