Muhammad Abdullah (f2020101038)

GREEK AND ROMAN

1. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GREEK AND ROMAN WITH RESPECT TO

URBAN MORPHOLOGY AND ARCHITECTURE
The urban morphology of ancient Greek and Roman cities exhibited some similarities,
but there were also distinctive differences influenced by cultural, political, and
architectural factors. Here are some key differences between Greek and Roman urban
morphology:

A. Greek and Roman Urban Morphology:

 Street Layout and Organization:

Greek: Greek cities, exemplified by Athens, often had irregular street patterns.
Streets followed the natural contours of the landscape, resulting in a more organic
layout.
Roman: Roman cities, like Rome itself, were known for their well-planned grid
systems. The streets intersected at right angles, creating a more organized and
systematic layout.

 Central Hubs and Civic Spaces:

Greek: The focal point of Greek cities was the agora, a central marketplace and civic
space. Temples and public buildings surrounded the agora, emphasizing communal
activities.
Roman: Roman cities featured forums, expansive open spaces surrounded by
important public buildings. The forum served as the center for political, commercial,
and social activities.

 Architectural Style:

Greek: Greek architecture emphasized aesthetics and symbolism. Temples, like the
Parthenon, were designed with intricate columns and sculptures, showcasing
artistic and philosophical ideals.
Roman: Roman architecture prioritized practicality and engineering. Structures like
the Colosseum and aqueducts displayed a focus on functionality and monumental
engineering achievements.
 Monumental Structures:

Greek: While Greeks built impressive structures, such as the Acropolis, these were
often integrated into the city’s fabric. They didn’t have large-scale, specialized
entertainment venues like Roman amphitheaters.
Roman: Romans were known for monumental structures on a grand scale, such as
the Colosseum for gladiatorial contests and the Pantheon for its engineering
marvels.

 City Planning Philosophy:

Greek: Greek city planning emphasized the harmony between natural surroundings
and urban structures. The layout reflected a connection with the landscape and the
creation of communal spaces.
Roman: Roman city planning was pragmatic and utilitarian. The grid system allowed
for efficient movement and organization, reflecting the Roman emphasis on order
and functionality.

CONCLUSION
In summary, while both Greek and Roman civilizations contributed significantly to
urban development, their approaches differed in terms of layout, architectural style,
and the philosophy behind city planning. The Greeks focused on aesthetic and
communal aspects, while the Romans prioritized efficiency and monumental
engineering.