HISTORY AND CULTURE OF ARCHITECTURE

History and Culture of Architecture: How the Roman Basilica Type Evolved From Secular Building In The Roman Forum To Religious Building Adapted To The Demands Of Christian Liturgy.

History and Culture of Architecture: How the Roman Basilica Type Evolved From Secular Building In The Roman Forum To Religious Building Adapted To The Demands Of Christian Liturgy.

Introduction

The art and architecture of ancient Rome and its empire in its peak period extended from the British Isles to the Caspian Sea. (Scotti 2007: 26)The earliest Roman art began with the overthrow of the Etruscan kings and the establishment of the republic by the year 509 BC It is believed that the end of Roman art, and therefore the beginning of medieval art, came with the conversion of Emperor Constantine to Christianity and the transfer of the capital of the empire from Rome to Constantinople in 330. However, the Roman style and even pagan Roman subjects continued their being represented for centuries, often in the Christian imprint.

Roman basilica type evolved from secular building in the Roman Forum

The typical Roman colonial city final period of the republic and the full rule had a rectangular plan similar to the Roman military camp with two main streets-the cardo (north-south) and decumano (east to west) - a grid of small streets that divide the city into blocks and a perimeter wall with access doors. Cities prior to the adoption of such planning, such as Rome itself, retained the labyrinthine pattern of winding streets. (Helen et.al 2004: 52) The forum was the focal point, usually located in the city center at the intersection of thistle and decumano. The open space surrounded by shops, functioned as the meeting place of Roman citizens. It was also the site of major religious and civic buildings, including the Senate, the ...