Etruscan architecture
Model of an Etruscan temple.
It is believed that the Etruscan architectural tradition developed around the seventh century BC, perhaps as a result of Greek colonisation that took place in southern Italy. Very little Etruscan architecture survives, as many of the cities were destroyed by the Romans who built over them during the rise of the Roman Empire. Some of their city walls and characteristic masonry arched gateways remain.
Sketch of the Etruscan Arch, Perugia (also known as Porta Augusta).
Unlike the Greeks (and later, the Romans) who used stone, the Etruscans favoured building using wood, clay, brick and tufa (building blocks made from the region’s volcanic ash). Stone was reserved for city walls, building foundations and tombs. The traces of Etruscan architecture that have been preserved are primarily religious temples where stone was used for the foundations.
Reconstruction of an Etruscan Temple of the 6th century, according to Vitruvius.
There are ancient Roman descriptions (particularly those by Vitruvius) that remark upon rich facade decorations, but stocky elegance was the underlying characteristic of these structures.
The shape of Etruscan columns was influenced by the simplicity of the Greek Doric order. However, because they were placed widely apart, their ratios and proportions were more in line with the Greek Ionic order. Their wooden columns were decoratively painted. Sometimes they also featured bases and capitals adorned with painted terracotta decorations.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding.
Types of rapidly renewable content
From forestry to agricultural crops and their by-products.
Terraced houses and the public realm
The discernible difference between the public realm of detached housing and of terraced housing.
Put digitalisation and sustainability at the core of curricula
Project management educators are urged.
Looking back at the influence of climate events
From a designer and writer: 'There are limits to growth but no limits to development'.
Terms, histories, theories and practice.
Biophilic design and natural light
Letting in the light and natural elements into spaces.
APM Programme Management Conference 2024
Strategies for Success.
Residential takes the reins as contract awards even out
Contracts down, but remain above the last quarter of 2023.
Celebrating Eid and the largest mud-brick building.
Barry Kingscote claims prestigious CIOB CMYA Award.
The British Mosque: an architectural and social history
The story of some 1,500 mosques or more in Britain.
Heat pump refrigerants, efficiencies and impacts
R12 to R1270 what are the differences?
Global heat pump market in 2023
Challenging times with positive but modest outlook.
Beyond the infrastructure pipeline
Opportunities and chokepoints.