An Architectural Element Employing the Roman Arch Design

An Architectural Element Employing the Roman Arch Design 

By: Cami Budzik

    The Roman Republic held power from 509 BCE to 27 BCE. Due to the expansion of the Roman Republic, the Roman culture was exposed to the arts and architecture of other cultures. Roman culture was heavily influence by Greece and the Hellenistic world. The Roman Republic often used Greek designs and Greek architecture. However, the Roman Republic pushed this Greek architecture to make greater buildings and projects. 

    The Roman arch consists of several elements. First, the bricks at the top of the arch that are actually forming the arch's curve are called Voussoirs. Next, the freestanding sides of the arch are called Piers and the sides of the arch that are connected to the rest of the building are called Jambs. Finally, the opening in between the Piers and the Jambs are called Bays. 

    There are numerous examples of arches seen in Rome. One of these examples in The Arch of Titus, (pictured below), which was built in 81 CE in Rome. This structure is made of concrete and white marble. 

    I took this picture of the arches in the front of Christ the King Catholic Church on Mill Street. These arches consist of Voussoirs, Jambs, Piers, and Bays, just as the arches of the Roman Republic do.