Monumental Monuments

Today, I will be exploring the National Mall in the capital of the United States of America, Washington D.C. I will be focusing on the Washington Monument, a national symbol of power and independence. This post will also reflect on a reading by Margaret Farrar and associate her ideas with what we can see in Washington D.C.

The Washington Monument is one of the most famous structures in the nation's capital. This colossal obelisk is the world’s largest true stone obelisk, standing at 169 metres tall. The monument lies right at the centre of the country’s capital, surrounded by 56 United States flags, one for each of the US states and colonies. Standing tall at the end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington’s National Mall, the obelisk is a display of power and governance. The structure was erected in honour of George Washington, who led the country to its independence, and later became the country’s first president. Upon completion, in 1884, the Washington Memorial was the tallest structure in the world. Currently, it remains the tallest structure in Washington.

Farrar explains that any expression of power and dominance is dependent on space and size. We can see this not only in Washington, but in Ancient Rome and throughout the world. The Washington monument is a monstrous structure that towers over its surroundings. Rome, for example, also possesses this quality, as many of the structures in the Roman Forum were of monumental size, surrounded by political, judicial and religious spaces. Scattered throughout the Roman Forum, and the rest of Rome, are several Egyptian Obelisks and columns. These structures were not unique to Rome, as they originated from Egypt, but many of them were seized by Roman Emperors and raised on Roman territory.

These distinct similarities to Rome can be seen, not only is Washington DC, but throughout the world. It is evident that Roman influence is highly present in Western architecture. Many of the cornerstone buildings in the original marble city have been nearly carbon copied throughout the United States, and the world. It is clear that many of the building styles and innovations have been incorporated in buildings today, be it structural columns or dome roofs, and will continue to be used from here on out.

Playing Chichen in Chichen Itza and Tula

Today, I will be touring Chichen Itza and Tula, Mexico. I will be noting the differences and similarities in their architectural styles, and development. Using Google Maps, and various online tour guides, I will begin my exploration.

It is widely believed that the Toltecs of Tula took over and ruled Chichen Itza. This thought came to be as an affinity was noticed between the architectural styling of both regions.

I`ll begin by taking a look at Chichen Itza`s 'Temple of the Warriors'. This is one of the most important and intriguing structure in Chichen Itza. The Temple is made up of four platforms, surrounded by 200 columns, both round and square. Inside this pyramid, is a series of paintings and drawings on the walls, illustrating several scenes of victory of the Yucatan over the Toltecs. Climbing the stairs on the way to the top of the pyramid, I passed a pair of feathered serpent statues. The 'feathered serpent', or Quetzalcoatl, is a familiar symbol, as I've come across it in Teotihuacan's Temple of Quetzalcoatl. This iconic feathered serpent symbolizes war. Atop this temple, I found a statue of Chacmool, a legendary messenger of the gods.

'Pyramid B' in Tulu is nearly identical to the 'Temple of the Warriors' in Chichen Itza. The interior of this structure is clad in painting, with its symbology also implying battle and triumph. Surrounding the pyramid, is an abundance of warrior columns. These columns implied the almighty rank of the deities. Pyramid B had a very similar shape to the 'Temple of the Warriors', as they both have steps leading to the peak, with sculptures of warriors.

There is a clear connection between the two sites, suggesting that the Toltecs did indeed occupy Chichen Itza. It is, however, suggested that the story is not as such. What is your belief?

Virtually Teotihuacan

Pyramid of the Sun

Teotihuacan's ruins are some of the most phenomenal in Mexico, and in the world. At its peak it was one of the largest cities in the world, with roughly 200,000 citizens. Teotihuacan means the 'place where gods were born' or 'where man met the gods'. This site is home to some of the largest pyramids in the world, as well as large residential complexes and the Avenue of the Dead. Today, I will be taking a virtual tour of this spectacular ancient city.

After a short bus ride in from Mexico City, I arrive in Teotihuacan. I will start my tour at the southernmost accessible point (by tourists), at the Ciudadela, or Citadel. The Citadel is a large open space surrounded by temples. This area was likely used for ceremonies and other events. Beside the Citadel is the Temple of Quetzalcoatl (Temple of the Feathered Serpent). The facade of this building is covered in elegant works of art and sculptures.

Avenue of the Dead as seen from the Pyramid of the Moon

I proceed to walk north along the Calzada de los Muertos or Avenue of the Dead, which got its bizarre name from the Aztecs who believed that all of the temples encompassing either side of the road were tombs for royalty. I will eventually reach the Pyramid of the Sun to the east. This pyramid is among the largest in the world and is built atop a series of sacred underground caves. It is not clear what the intended use of this structure was, as it has been weathered and beaten over time. There are remnants of an altar at its peak. This could suggest a religious significance. The Pyramid of the Sun is located right in the centre of the Teotihuacan, stressing its importance and influence.

Continuing north on the main road, I finally reach the Pyramid of the Moon. It is confirmed that this pyramid did contain tombs for gods or goddesses. Being the second largest structure in Teotihuacan, next to the Pyramid of the Sun, this pyramid is extremely large and dominant, and its position at the end of the Avenue of the Dead allows it to look over the entire city.

Pyramid of the Moon, as seen from the Pyramid of the Sun

After my virtual tour through Teotihuacan, it is clear to me that the common theme of power and dominance, learned throughout this class, is prevalent in this city. Comparing Teotihuacan to the previous sites I have researched, such as Timgad, Pikillacta, and Rome, I can begin to notice and appreciate the evolution of the urban form we know today. I am able to draw parallels from cultures all around the world, both past and present, and find common architectural and urban planning principles. I can't wait to see what my next adventure has in store! See you soon!

From Timgad to Pikillacta

Cardo Maximus Road in Timgad

Thamugadi, or Timgad, was once an advanced and properous Roman colony located near the Aures Mountains in Northern Algeria. Today it is a decrepit ruin. The remains were discovered in the late 1800s, buried beneath centuries of sand buildup. The city was founded by the Roman Emperor Trajan around 100 AD. Timgad was laid out with great meticulousness, showing the high standards of Roman urban planning. The buildings were constructed using only stone and the streets were lined with slabs of limestone. There were many different size houses within the community, as well as public service buildings and social gathering places. Several Roman structures were erected as a symbol of the power and affluence at the time. Archaeologists have also discovered a large aqueduct which was used to transport storm water to the settlement. The sewage and drainage systems implemented by the Romans were remarkably complex and efficient, using the natural flow of rain water through underground channels to flush away human waste. As you can see in the image below, Timgad embraced the Roman urban planning guidlines, by its incredible grid-like road system. What was the purpose of the grid system? Increased mobility and equality in land ownership. The division of land between the Romans and the African locals satisfied all inhabitants of the city. Roman citizenship was primarily granted to those who had finalized their service with the Roman army. Timgad was the ideal Roman community and the epitome of power.

Timgad's grid road network

Similar to the structure we see in Timgad, Pikillacta, Peru embodies many of the features mentioned above. Pikillacta is located in near Cuzco, in the Lucre Basin. Aqueducts and canal systems were used to provide and move water throughout the city. Many symbolic structures were constructed to show wealth and authority. A heavy emphasis was placed on the grid road pattern, as we saw in Timgad. Large and heavy walls were used to define space within the settlement. Based on its unyielding design, it appears that the city was used primarily for bureaucratic and militaristic purposes rather than for residential use. Located within broad and tall exterior walls, we can deduce that Pikillacta was a warmongering city, ready for any attack upon them. The grandiose size of the settlement goes to show how the power dynamics influenced the population. Mass numbers of people came together to build the monumental structures and develop the city.

Fortified walls surrounding Pikillacta

After learning more about both Timgad and Pikillacta, I can draw many similarities and dissimilarities. Both civilizations utilized similar architectural features to unify people and carry out daily activities. The grid road network in both sites created a sense of organization and the central gathering spaces provided entertainment and social exchange. Both cities were heavily fortified, making for a more hostile environment as the citizens lived in fear of attack. Timgad, however, was a little more oriented for family living for those who gave a large portion of their lives to the Roman army, while the Peruvian village was geared more for defence.

Rome - Abridged

Rome is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. People come from around the world to admire Rome's history of architecture and art. It could take days, possibly even weeks to gain a full understanding and to appreciate all the history it has to offer. I will be using my travel guide which I obtained from frommers.com, for a quick one day tour of some of the major sights to see in Rome.

Santi Luca e Martina Church (centre) And Curia "Senate house" (right)

I was always taught to start from the beginning, so my Roman journey will initiate in the ancient Roman Forum. Dating back to the 7th century BC, this area is rich in history and significance. The Forum is a plaza encompassed by ruins of many significant buildings, right in the heart of the city. It is believed that the creation of the Forum was directly linked to a battle between Romulus, the first King of Rome who controlled the Palatium hill, and his rival Titus Tatius who controlled the Capitolium hill. Legend has it that the women of the settlements intervened and made the men put down their weapons, and try compromising. The Forum, laying between the two hills, became a place for the two groups to meet and negotiate. This is the reason why many places today, where people meet to discuss and exchange information, are called forums.

Column of Phocas (centre), Arch of Constantine (right)

In the above picture, we can see some of the very important buildings within the Forum. These structures were the home to the religious, political and judicial systems.

To the right we can see the Column of Phocas and the Arch of Constantine. The 44ft tall Column of Phocas was the last monument to be raised in the Forum, and was raised in honour of the Roman Emperor Phocas. The Arch of Constantine was raised in honour of Constantine's victory over Maxentius in 312 AD The mighty arch with 3 archways is wrapped in fascinating sculptures and inscriptions depicting Constantine's triumph as well as other historically significant conquests.

The Colosseum

Next, we will admire the Colosseum, the ancient amphitheatre. Construction of the Colosseum began in 72 AD and was an astonishing feat of engineering, as it was built on supports in a swamp. Upon completion, the amphitheatre was dedicated to Titus, and was covered in marble. Its capacity was nearly 80,000 spectators and many games and events were held within.

The Pantheon

Finally, we will venture over to Piazza della Rotonda to admire The Pantheon. This remarkable building has been in constant use since its creation in 126 AD, but since the 7th century it has been used as a Roman Catholic church devoted to "St Mary and the Martyrs". The building is actually circular with a dome roof and a rectangular entrance lobby. Almost 2000 years later and its dome is still the largest non-reinforced concrete dome in the world (142ft tall).

After taking in a few of the innumerable sights of Rome, I am able to make connections between Roman architecture and modern architecture. It is clear that many of the building styles and innovations have been incorporated in buildings today, be it structural columns or dome roofs, and will continue to be used from here on out. I have gained a lot of insight from taking an abridged virtual trip through Rome and it has helped me achieve a deeper understanding of the history behind today's modern built form.

Anyways, all this walking has made me hungry and needing a rest, so I will be hitting up one of countless restaurants in the area for a slice of pizza pie and a nice, cold gelato.

See you soon!

Introduction

Hello fellow bloggers and classmates,

My name is Chris Ionescu and I'm a 3rd year student at Western University, enrolled in the Honour Specialization of Urban Development program. Upon graduation, I hope to pursue the field of commercial real estate and property management. I was born in St. Catharines and raised in London. Since my pre-pubescent days, I have always had a thing for the urban form. I would spend hours in my room, with my LEGO, planning out my very own little town. I grew up in a neighbourhood which was constantly undergoing change and development, and that change continues today. Being around all of this has really sparked my interest in the field.

This blog aims to explore the history of architecture and urbanism for Visual Arts History 3388G. Throughout the semester, I will be posting about various articles and themes pertaining to the course material, as well as my thoughts and opinions on any interesting topics I may come across.

The above picture shows the Absolute World residential condominium buildings in Mississauga, more commonly referred to as the 'Marylin Monroe' buildings, as they posses a similar curvy figure to the famous actress, model and singer. What I find extremely intriguing about these buildings is that they do not follow the traditional 90° vertical shape of many of the world's skyscrapers, rather they step outside of the norm and offer something a lot more obscure and visually appealing. These buildings were part of an international design competition and, upon completion, the towers were regarded as being among the best new skyscrapers in the world, by many architects and engineers. 

I hope you gained some understanding as to what I appreciate in urban landscapes and I will continue to update you with more of my interpretations of the built form.

- Chris