Geometric Design Rules of Anatolian Roman Aqueducts

Abstract

Romans introduced many different building types in history, such as aqueducts, baths, and bridges. The bridges and arcades of the aqueducts are a few notable examples of Roman structures. Their design ensures their endurance as well as their attractive appearance. The sources of the geometrical design of Roman Aqueducts in Anatolia have yet to be deciphered. The purpose of the study is to determine the geometric design rules of Roman Aqueduct bridges and arcades located in Anatolia since most of them are in danger of loss and are not documented. There are no tracings of the top level or ground level of some aqueducts.

The method of the study includes three phases. Firstly, the representative facade drawings of Roman Aqueducts were documented and drawn; secondly, a geometrical analysis using primary geometric forms such as circles and equilateral triangles; grids with Pythagorean triangles and golden ratio were made. Finally, analysis results were filtered to provide geometric structural schemes of the aqueducts.

Consequanetly, the usage of equilateral and Pythagorean triangles draws attention as much as the usage of circles. These triangles determine both the form of the arches and the façade organizations. Also, the grid system was used to determine some levels, such as cornices, springing lines, and the top of the arches. Thus, the golden ratio helped find the aqueduct's horizontal levels, especially the upper levels. The geometric schemes of the aqueducts are determined using all gathered data. Geometric schemes propose data about the aqueducts' design principles and for missing parts of the aqueducts.