Decumanus

Definition

A decumanus is a term used to describe one of the main east-west streets in a Roman city or military camp, playing a crucial role in the urban layout and design of these settlements. It typically intersects with the cardo, the north-south main street, creating a grid-like pattern that reflects the structured planning characteristic of Roman urbanism. This layout not only facilitated movement and trade but also emphasized the importance of public space in Roman society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The decumanus was integral to Roman city planning and served as a primary thoroughfare for trade and communication.
2. The intersection of the decumanus and cardo often marked the city's center, highlighting the importance of these streets in urban life.
3. Roman military camps also utilized the decumanus in their layout, reflecting the standardized approach to military and civilian settlements.
4. Many surviving Roman towns still show remnants of their decumani, showcasing how this street design influenced later urban development.
5. The term 'decumanus' originates from the Latin word for 'ten,' referring to its designation as one of the ten principal streets laid out in some military camps.

Review Questions

• How did the design of the decumanus contribute to the overall functionality and organization of Roman cities?
  • The decumanus contributed significantly to Roman cities by facilitating efficient movement and trade between different areas. As an essential east-west route, it connected various districts and allowed for easy access to markets, public buildings, and residential zones. The structured grid layout, characterized by the intersection of the decumanus with the cardo, created a logical organization that helped residents navigate their environment effectively.
• In what ways did the intersection of the decumanus and cardo serve as a focal point for social and economic activities in Roman towns?
  • The intersection of the decumanus and cardo served as a vital hub for social and economic activities within Roman towns. This central location often housed important civic structures, such as temples and basilicas, as well as markets where citizens gathered to trade goods. The presence of the forum nearby further amplified this area’s role as a vibrant center for public life, reinforcing its significance in the daily routines of inhabitants.
• Evaluate the impact of Roman urban planning, particularly through features like the decumanus, on modern city layouts around the world.
  • Roman urban planning has left a lasting legacy on modern city layouts globally. The systematic use of features like the decumanus established foundational principles for organized streets that prioritize functionality and accessibility. Many contemporary cities still adopt grid-like patterns influenced by Roman designs, allowing for efficient traffic flow and urban organization. As cities expand or are newly constructed, lessons learned from Roman planning continue to inform how spaces are designed to accommodate growing populations while maintaining order and coherence.

Related terms

Cardo: The main north-south street in a Roman town, which intersected with the decumanus, forming the backbone of Roman urban planning.

Forum: A central public space in Roman cities, often located near the intersection of the decumanus and cardo, serving as a marketplace and a venue for civic activities.

Grid Plan: An urban planning design that features a grid layout of streets, prominently used in Roman towns to enhance organization, navigation, and accessibility.