Large-span concrete dome (Pantheon)

What it is

A hemispherical concrete dome 43.3 m in diameter, with aggregate growing lighter towards the oculus, coffers that reduce weight, and compression rings. Still today the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

What it led to

• Interior space as an architectural experience, as opposed to the Greek exterior temple
• Hagia Sophia, and Islamic and Renaissance domes (Brunelleschi studied it)
• Empirical calculation of thrusts and grading of materials
• A symbol of imperial power and of the cosmos

Built on

• True voussoir arch and barrel vaultc. 300 BCE
• Roman concrete (opus caementicium)c. 200 BCE
• Roman treadwheel cranec. 100 BCE
• Roman public bathsc. 100 BCE
• Hydraulic marine pozzolanic concretec. 50 BCE
• Roman baths
• Pozzolana

Made possible

• Double-shell dome1067-1093
• Hagia Sophia
• Brunelleschi's dome
• Pendentive

Links