Arch of Titus on Rome's Via Sacra

Arch of Titus is near the Coliseum in Rome. We visited here and enjoyed very much. I want to return.

Arch of Titus - Rome, Italy

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Stationed at the highest point along Via Sacra (or the Sacred Way), the Arch of Titus is a marvel of ancient Roman engineering - of both architecture and propaganda.The arch was most likely completed in 81 AD, after the death of one of Rome's most popular rulers, Emperor Titus. It is rumored that Titus himself commissioned the arch be built to remind the people of his most famous military victory, the triumph of Jerusalem in 70 AD.However, construction was completed by Titus' brother, Domitian, who took the throne after Titus' death. Domitian was not as popular with the people, and so to gain favor, he not only completed the arch, but also erected other monuments to honor both his late brother, and father, Emperor Vespasian.Visiting this free-standing arch, one may fail to realize its engineering significance. Roman arches employ a design element that still captivates those who use or just see it at work. The name of this phenomena? The Keystone Block.The Keystone Block is the "key" to the arch because it is this stone that keeps all the others in their proper place. Its unique shape is the secret to its success. Wider on the top, and tapering slightly toward the bottom, the keystone transfers the pressure weight of the stones down through the voussoir blocks (or the other stones of the arch) to each of the side posts.To fully appreciate this feat, one must understand the precise engineering necessary for its success. Even a tiny mathematical equation resulting in a miniscule discrepancy of proportion - and the pressure of the weight of the stones would be erroneously distributed, bringing the whole thing down.A testament to the precision of its design, the Arch of Titus is the oldest surviving example of the Roman arch in the world. It has stood the tests of time, earthquakes, and seasons - and it still serves its purpose by glorifying a military feat that otherwise would be long forgotten.
For more information on the Emperor Titus and his Arch:
http://www.salve.edu/~romanemp/titus.htm
http://www.wisc.edu/arth/ah201/26.imperialsculpture.1.html

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