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"Roman architecture" redirects here. For the architecture of the city, see Architecture of Rome.

The Colosseum in Rome, Italy
Ancient Roman architecture adopted certain aspects of Ancient Greek architecture, creating a new architectural style. The Romans were indebted to their Etruscan neighbors and forefathers who supplied them with a wealth of knowledge essential for future architectural solutions, such as hydraulics in the construction of arches. Later they absorbed Greek and Phoenician influence, apparent in many aspects closely related to architecture; for example, this can be seen in the introduction and use of the Triclinium in Roman villas as a place and manner of dining. Roman architecture flourished throughout the Empire during the Pax Romana.
Roman Architecture covers the period from the establishment of the Roman Republic in 509BC, to about the 4th century, after which it becomes reclassified as Late Antique or Byzantine architecture. Most of the many survivals are from the later imperial period. Roman architectural style continued to influence building in the former empire for many centuries, and the style beginning in Western Europe about 1000 is called Romanesque architecture to reflect this dependence on basic Roman forms.
Contents [hide]
1 Context
2 The arch and the dome
2.1 Housing
3 Common building types
4 Materials
5 Modern influence
6 List of buildings, features and types of buildings
7 Further reading
8 References
9 External links
Context[edit]

Factors such as wealth and high population densities in cities forced the ancient Romans to discover new architectural solutions of their own. The use of vaults and arches, together with a sound knowledge of building materials, enabled them to achieve unprecedented successes in the construction of imposing structures for public use. Examples