El 'foro provincial' de Tarraco: documentación y análisis de técnicas y procesos de construcción

Identifier:  TDX:2243

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX2243

Authors:  Vinci, María Serena

Abstract:
Herein, a study is presented that embraces the architectural and constructive aspects of the Provincial Forum of Tarraco. The architectural complex of the capital of the Provincia Hispaniae Citerioris is comprised of three areas - the Worship Area, the Representation Square and the Circus- and stands as an exceptional example characterized by the harmonious integration of mighty structures made in opus quadratum in both the anteceded anthropic context and in the landscape of the upper town. The impressive architectural elements and detailed decorations set in a scenic landscape convey a powerful and ideological message. In order to achieve a study both coherent and critical, the research presented here started from the material data. The resulting analysis of the constructive features of the three areas of the Provincial Forum provided insight into the technological knowledge, the organization of constructive processes and the architectural perspectives required to construct of one of the most important monuments in the Western provinces. The detailed analyses of the different building phases revealed a constructive process that permitted adaptation to new contingencies or deliberate modification of the original plans. The Roman builders exhibited their substantial engineering expertise as well as their willingness to implement experimental building solutions at Tarraco, which resulted in the successful construction of the Provincial Forum.