Using 3D Modeling to Decode the Mathematics of Roman Architecture

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From the Colosseum's vast arches to the Pantheon's perfect dome, Roman architecture fused engineering precision with expressive form. These buildings reshaped the urban life of antiquity but also left traces that continue to guide contemporary design. Yet much of the knowledge behind their construction has been lost or obscured over time, like the geometry, the proportions, and methods. Today, new technologies are helping to recover that hidden layer of architectural intelligence, offering fresh perspectives on how Romans built with such ingenuity.

Using 3D Modeling to Decode the Mathematics of Roman Architecture - Image 2 of 8
Courtesy of Autodesk

The city of Volterra, nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Italy, has played a crucial role in advancing our knowledge of antiquity. With over 3,000 years of history, Volterra is a historical treasure trove, home to sites dating back to the 4th century BCE, and it is known as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, boasting remarkable landmarks such as the world's oldest Etruscan arch. The city also features one of the finest examples of a Roman theater, discovered just 50 years ago. Such discoveries have been driven by the efforts of a research team led by Wladek Fuchs, Professor at the School of Architecture and Community Development at the University of Detroit Mercy and Executive Director of the Volterra-Detroit Foundation. Contemporary technologies have unlocked new ways to reveal the mathematical sophistication embedded in these ancient structures.

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Cite: Eduardo Souza. "Using 3D Modeling to Decode the Mathematics of Roman Architecture" 10 Dec 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1024418/using-3d-modeling-to-decode-the-mathematics-of-roman-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

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