When we think of Roman engineering, towering aqueducts and grand amphitheatres often come to mind. But beneath these monumental achievements lay a humbler, yet equally crucial, building material. Understanding what did Romans call bricks is key to appreciating the everyday ingenuity of this ancient civilization.
The Roman Brick A Humble Yet Mighty Material
The Romans were masters of fired clay, and their bricks, known by various names depending on their form and function, were a cornerstone of their construction. The most common term, especially for the standard rectangular brick, was later. These bricks varied in size and thickness, often reflecting the specific needs of a building project or the available clay deposits. The Romans were meticulous in their production, ensuring consistency and durability.
Beyond the general term ’later’, the Romans also had specific names for different types of brickwork. For example, opus latericium referred to walls constructed entirely of brick. They also used bricks in conjunction with other materials. A technique called opus mixtum involved alternating courses of brick with rubble or stone. This blend of materials allowed for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The importance of these standardized units cannot be overstated; they allowed for faster, more predictable construction than traditional stone masonry.
Here’s a brief overview of some key terms and concepts related to Roman bricks
- Later The general term for a brick.
- Laterculi This term referred to smaller bricks or brick tiles, often used for decorative elements or roofing.
- Testae Sometimes used for fired clay or pottery shards, but could also refer to bricks.
Their innovative use of bricks extended to arches, vaults, and even entire domes, demonstrating their versatility. The Romans were not just users of bricks but innovators in their application, setting a precedent for construction techniques that would be used for centuries.
To delve deeper into the fascinating world of Roman building techniques and uncover more about the materials they used, consult the detailed information provided in the next section.