ABSTRACT
Because much has been written on Roman technology and because what has been written bears an air of great authority it is tempting to suppose that the subject has been thoroughly researched and is well understood. In discussions of many aspects of Roman technology the temptation to follow an established pattern has proved irresistible. This is especially true of the archaeological evidence which in many cases cannot be examined, so thoroughly have modern developments and re-developments obliterated the traces of Roman engineering over, on and under the ground. Historians of engineering have as yet failed to compose anything like a coherent and complete account of Roman engineering. The study of ancient engineering generally and Roman engineering in particular is beset with difficulties. Moreover, Roman engineering emphasized three significant developments which had never been prominent before: a widespread application of the semicircular arch, the extensive use of concrete and the concept of public works.
