Vitruvius

Vitruvius — Roman Engineer, Architect. He gives thorough detail of how Romans built their houses. He’s writing the book to Caeser. He starts by sharing how Architects need a wide variety of knowledge from music, astronomy, geometry, history. We don’t learn astronomy these days. But I suspect it had something to do with Astrology or signs. He boils down the principles of Architecture to Order, Arrangement, Eurythmy [ systematic movement of parts in reciting poetry or some literature ] and Economy.

He goes to explain in detail about each of these. He uses the word, “forms of expression.” He would say, forms of expression of arrangement are ground-plan, elevation, perspective. I like how he used this word. Anyway — next he goes to explain; Departments of Architecture, Materials, Temples, Forums, Houses, Floor, How to Find Water, Astrology, and Machines. It’s interesting to connect music with architecture, he gives a detailed explanation of how a theatre is connected to each rhythm of the music.

I was curious about how to find Water. I really wonder if his method works. I'm not sure. Overall, a good introduction to Architectural Principles.

Deus Vult,
Gottfried… (more)