Roman Roads

Roman Roads

• Our presentation is on the Roman Roads.

• We will explain the methods use to build the roads and for what purpose.

Agenda

• Identify the need for roads

• Explain the methods that were adopted by the Romans in constructing roads

• Identify the materials used in the construction of the major Roman highways

• Comparison of Roman road system versus our own road system

Problem

• The problem for the Romans was as moving equipment such as catapults faster from point A to point B.

• The need for better defense, along with a desire for expansion .

• These roads allowed a faster and easier movement of goods and traders, as well as the rapid transfer of troops.

Design

• In Rocky stable areas only one layer

of cobble stone was used

• In soft unstable areas a fosa was made

and filled with gravel, cobble stone and

rubble held together by sandy soil or lime mortar

• Pavement thickness ranged from 25cm to 150 cm depending on the area

• Grade of pavement: 1-2 % on flat ground 16-18% on mountain

• The pavement had a convex dropped from 5% to 10% for drainage purposes

• Large rocks were placed to prevent lateral spreading

• Large rocks placed in the middle to separate opposing traffic

• A road in Ribchester, England this road branches of the “Course of Roman Road”

• Is a road from past Roman origin that has been updated to be used effectively used by motor vehicles

• Has a smooth surface to facilitate ease of access

Materials

• Cobble stone

• Gravel

• Rubble

• Large local stones

• Sandy clay

• Flint stones

• Chalk

Method of construction

• A hole was dug in order to fill it in with 4 to 5 more layers, depending on the soil, to strengthen the structure

• The roads were slanted up to 10% to facilitate water draining; therefore, avoiding damage to the roads

• Use of a drainage system

called a fossa

• Built a meter or more elevated

from ground level to eliminate

water gathering and to have a

better view of the surroundings

• Device used to measured distance of the road

Comparison and evolution

• A Roman road maintained for their historical value and engineering significance

• Its rough surface proves ineffective for travel in modern vehicles

• A road in Ribchester, England this road branches of the “Course of Roman Road”

• Is a road from past Roman origin that has been updated to be used effectively used by motor vehicles

• Has a smooth surface

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