Vault

Definition

A vault is an architectural structure that forms a roof or ceiling over a space, typically created by the arching of masonry or concrete. It is crucial for allowing larger interior spaces without the need for numerous supporting columns, enabling the design of grand structures. The use of vaults transformed Roman architecture, giving rise to iconic buildings that showcased both aesthetic beauty and engineering innovation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Roman vaults were often made from materials like brick, stone, or concrete, showcasing advanced engineering techniques.
2. The introduction of the barrel vault allowed Romans to construct larger and more complex interiors, such as those seen in basilicas and baths.
3. Cross vaults, formed by the intersection of two barrel vaults, created even more expansive spaces and were commonly used in the design of cathedrals.
4. The Pantheon features a massive coffered concrete dome, which exemplifies the use of vaulting techniques to achieve both structural integrity and visual impact.
5. The Colosseum utilized multiple levels of vaulted arches to support its massive structure while allowing spectators to view events from various tiers.

Review Questions

• How did the development of vaults influence the design and functionality of Roman buildings?
  • The development of vaults significantly influenced Roman architecture by enabling builders to create larger and more open interior spaces without the need for excessive columns. This allowed for grand designs in public buildings, such as temples and bathhouses, facilitating gatherings and activities. Vaults also provided greater structural stability, allowing Romans to push the boundaries of engineering and artistic expression in their architectural achievements.
• Compare and contrast the different types of vaults used in Roman architecture, including their structural benefits and aesthetic contributions.
  • Roman architects utilized various types of vaults, such as barrel vaults and cross vaults, each offering unique structural benefits. Barrel vaults allowed for long, uninterrupted spaces ideal for large gatherings or ceremonial functions, while cross vaults created intricate ceiling patterns and supported more complex structures. Both types contributed to the aesthetic grandeur of Roman buildings, with their smooth lines and impressive spans enhancing the overall visual appeal.
• Evaluate the impact of vaulted structures on the legacy of Roman architecture in later historical periods.
  • Vaulted structures left a lasting legacy on architecture beyond Rome, influencing styles during the Renaissance and into modern times. The principles of vaulting provided solutions for spanning vast interiors in churches and public buildings, inspiring architects like Brunelleschi with his dome for Florence Cathedral. As architects adopted and adapted these techniques throughout history, vaulted designs became emblematic of grand architectural movements, showcasing how Roman innovations shaped future developments in construction and design.

Related terms

Arch:

A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight above it, serving as the foundational element for creating vaults.

Dome:

A vaulted structure that is rounded and forms the roof of a building, often used in Roman architecture to create large open spaces.

Barrel Vault: A type of vault formed by extending a single curve along a given distance, resembling a half-cylinder and commonly used in Roman buildings.