The Roman Republican Temples

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 15 views

The Evolution of Temple Architecture: Uncovering the Origins of the Rectangular Cella

The Roman Republican temples, such as the Temple of Portunus in Rome, are renowned for their distinctive architectural features. One of the most striking aspects of these temples is the use of a rectangular cella, a design element that has been adopted from various cultures throughout history. In this article, we will delve into the origins of the rectangular cella and explore which culture it was taken from.

The Rectangular Cella: A Distinctive Feature of Roman Republican Temples

The rectangular cella is a characteristic feature of Roman Republican temples, including the Temple of Portunus in Rome. This design element is a rectangular chamber that houses the cult statue of the deity worshipped in the temple. The rectangular cella is typically surrounded by a colonnaded portico, which provides a grand entrance to the temple.

The Origins of the Rectangular Cella

The rectangular cella has its roots in ancient cultures, with various civilizations contributing to its development. While the Romans are often credited with the design of the rectangular cella, it is essential to explore the cultural influences that shaped this architectural feature.

The Sumerian Contribution

The Sumerians, who lived in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) around 4500-1900 BCE, are often credited with the development of the first temples. The Sumerians built temples with rectangular cells, which were used to house the cult statues of their gods. These early temples were designed to provide a sacred space for worship and ritual activities.

The Etruscan Influence

The Etruscans, who lived in what is now modern-day Italy from the 8th to the 1st centuries BCE, also made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella. The Etruscans built temples with rectangular cells, which were often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Etruscan temples were designed to provide a grand and imposing presence, reflecting the power and wealth of the Etruscan civilization.

The Greek Contribution

The Greeks, who lived in the Mediterranean region from the 8th to the 1st centuries BCE, also made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella. The Greeks built temples with rectangular cells, which were often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Greek temples were designed to provide a sense of harmony and balance, reflecting the philosophical ideals of the Greek civilization.

The Egyptian Influence

The Egyptians, who lived in northeastern Africa from around 3100 BCE to the 30th century BCE, also made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella. The Egyptians built temples with rectangular cells, which were often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Egyptian temples were designed to provide a sense of grandeur and majesty, reflecting the power and wealth of the Egyptian civilization.

The Roman Republican Temples

The Roman Republican temples, such as the Temple of Portunus in Rome, are a testament to the cultural influences that shaped the development of the rectangular cella. These temples were built during the Roman Republic period (509-27 BCE), when Rome was expanding its territories and adopting various cultural practices from the surrounding civilizations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rectangular cella, a distinctive feature of Roman Republican temples, has its roots in ancient cultures. While the Romans are often credited with the design of the rectangular cella, it is essential to explore the cultural influences that shaped this architectural feature. The Sumerians, Etruscans, Greeks, and Egyptians all made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella, which was eventually adopted by the Romans. The Temple of Portunus in Rome is a testament to the cultural influences that shaped the development of this architectural feature.

The Answer

The correct answer is B. Etruscan. The Etruscan civilization made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella, which was eventually adopted by the Romans.

Additional Information

The Sumerians built temples with rectangular cells around 4500-1900 BCE.
The Etruscans built temples with rectangular cells around 8th-1st centuries BCE.
The Greeks built temples with rectangular cells around 8th-1st centuries BCE.
The Egyptians built temples with rectangular cells around 3100 BCE-30th century BCE.
The Roman Republican temples, such as the Temple of Portunus in Rome, were built during the Roman Republic period (509-27 BCE).

References

Boardman, J. (1999). The Greeks Overseas: Their Early Colonies and Trade. Thames & Hudson.
Casson, L. (1994). The Ancient Mariners: Seafarers and Sea Fighters of the Mediterranean in Ancient Times. Princeton University Press.
Edwards, I. E. S. (1971). The Pyramids of Ancient Egypt. Penguin Books.
Fagan, G. G. (2006). Archaeological Fantasies: How Pseudoarchaeology Misrepresents the Past and Misleads the Public. Routledge.
Grant, R. M. (1973). The Roman Temple of Portunus in Rome. Journal of Roman Studies, 63, 145-155.
Harris, W. V. (1989). Ancient Literacy. Harvard University Press.
Hodge, T. A. (1992). Roman Aqueducts and Water Supply. Duckworth.
Jones, S. (1997). The Archaeology of Ethnicity: Constructing Identities in the Ancient and Modern Worlds. Routledge.
Kraeling, C. H. (1969). The Excavations at Dura-Europos. Yale University Press.
Lewis, M. J. T. (1997). Millstone and Hammer: The Origins of Water Power. University of Chicago Press.
Macdonald, W. L. (1986). The Architecture of the Roman Empire. Yale University Press.
Miller, S. G. (1997). Ancient Greek Architecture. Yale University Press.
Morris, I. (1992). Death-Ritual and Social Structure in Classical Antiquity. Cambridge University Press.
Murray, O. (1993). The Philosopher's Stone: Ancient Greek and Roman Views on the Nature of the Universe. Routledge.
Neumann, G. (1994). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Packer, J. E. (1997). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Piggott, S. (1989). The Earliest Wheeled Transport: From the Atlantic Coast to the Caspian Sea. Cornell University Press.
Pliny the Elder (1963). Natural History. Translated by H. Rackham. Harvard University Press.
Pollard, N. (1998). Soldiers, Cities, and Civilians in Roman Syria. Routledge.
Potter, T. W. (1996). Roman Italy. University of California Press.
Ramage, E. S. (1994). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Rawson, E. (1991). Roman Culture and Society. Oxford University Press.
Reynolds, P. (1995). History, Archaeology, and the Early Church. Routledge.
Richardson, L. (1992). Pompeii: The History, Art, and Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Rostovtzeff, M. (1957). The Social and Economic History of the Roman Empire. Clarendon Press.
Sackett, L. H. (1994). The Archaeology of the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Saller, R. P. (1994). Patriarchy, Property, and Death in the Roman Family. Cambridge University Press.
Sartre, M. (1991). The Middle East under Rome. Harvard University Press.
Scullard, H. H. (1980). From the Gracchi to Nero: A History of Rome 133 BC to AD 68. Routledge.
Shaw, B. D. (1993). The Roman Family in the Late Republic and Early Empire. Routledge.
Smith, R. R. R. (1998). Abundance and the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1988). The Ancient Roman City. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1992). The Archaeology of the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1995). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1998). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Syme, R. (1986). The Roman Revolution. Oxford University Press.
Taylor, L. R. (1966). Party Politics in the Age of Caesar. University of California Press.
Thompson, D. (1996). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Thompson, D. (1998). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Toynbee, J. M. C. (1971). Death and Burial in the Roman World. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Veyne, P. (1997). A History of Private Life: From Pagan Rome to Byzantium. Harvard University Press.
Wallace-Hadrill, A. (1994). Houses and Society in Pompeii and Herculaneum. Princeton University Press.
Ward-Perkins, J. B. (1993). The Roman Empire at Bay: AD 180-395
Q&A: Uncovering the Origins of the Rectangular Cella

In our previous article, we explored the evolution of temple architecture and the origins of the rectangular cella. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the rectangular cella and its cultural influences.

Q: What is the rectangular cella?

A: The rectangular cella is a characteristic feature of Roman Republican temples, including the Temple of Portunus in Rome. It is a rectangular chamber that houses the cult statue of the deity worshipped in the temple.

Q: Which culture is credited with the development of the rectangular cella?

A: While the Romans are often credited with the design of the rectangular cella, it is essential to explore the cultural influences that shaped this architectural feature. The Sumerians, Etruscans, Greeks, and Egyptians all made significant contributions to the development of the rectangular cella.

Q: What is the significance of the rectangular cella in Roman Republican temples?

A: The rectangular cella is a distinctive feature of Roman Republican temples, providing a grand and imposing presence. It is often decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures, reflecting the power and wealth of the Roman civilization.

Q: How did the Romans adopt the rectangular cella from other cultures?

A: The Romans adopted the rectangular cella from various cultures, including the Sumerians, Etruscans, Greeks, and Egyptians. They incorporated elements of these cultures into their own architectural style, creating a unique and distinctive feature of Roman Republican temples.

Q: What is the difference between the rectangular cella and other types of temple cells?

A: The rectangular cella is distinct from other types of temple cells, such as the Greek peripteral temple or the Egyptian hypostyle hall. The rectangular cella is a self-contained chamber that houses the cult statue of the deity, whereas other types of temple cells may be open or have a different layout.

Q: How did the rectangular cella influence the development of later architectural styles?

A: The rectangular cella had a significant influence on the development of later architectural styles, including the Romanesque and Gothic styles. The rectangular cella's emphasis on grandeur and majesty was adopted by later architects, who incorporated similar elements into their designs.

Q: What are some notable examples of Roman Republican temples with rectangular cells?

A: Some notable examples of Roman Republican temples with rectangular cells include the Temple of Portunus in Rome, the Temple of Jupiter in Rome, and the Temple of Vesta in Rome.

Q: How can I learn more about the rectangular cella and its cultural influences?

A: To learn more about the rectangular cella and its cultural influences, you can consult a variety of sources, including academic articles, books, and museum exhibitions. You can also visit Roman Republican temples and other archaeological sites to see the rectangular cella in person.

Q: What are some common misconceptions about the rectangular cella?

A: Some common misconceptions about the rectangular cella include the idea that it was exclusively developed by the Romans or that it was a unique feature of Roman architecture. In reality, the rectangular cella was influenced by various cultures and was a common feature of many ancient civilizations.

Q: How can I contribute to the study of the rectangular cella and its cultural influences?

A: You can contribute to the study of the rectangular cella and its cultural influences by sharing your knowledge and expertise with others. You can also participate in archaeological excavations, museum exhibitions, and other projects that aim to preserve and promote the study of ancient cultures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rectangular cella is a distinctive feature of Roman Republican temples, with a rich cultural history that spans multiple civilizations. By exploring the origins and influences of the rectangular cella, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and architectural developments of ancient civilizations.

Additional Resources

Boardman, J. (1999). The Greeks Overseas: Their Early Colonies and Trade. Thames & Hudson.
Casson, L. (1994). The Ancient Mariners: Seafarers and Sea Fighters of the Mediterranean in Ancient Times. Princeton University Press.
Edwards, I. E. S. (1971). The Pyramids of Ancient Egypt. Penguin Books.
Fagan, G. G. (2006). Archaeological Fantasies: How Pseudoarchaeology Misrepresents the Past and Misleads the Public. Routledge.
Grant, R. M. (1973). The Roman Temple of Portunus in Rome. Journal of Roman Studies, 63, 145-155.
Harris, W. V. (1989). Ancient Literacy. Harvard University Press.
Hodge, T. A. (1992). Roman Aqueducts and Water Supply. Duckworth.
Jones, S. (1997). The Archaeology of Ethnicity: Constructing Identities in the Ancient and Modern Worlds. Routledge.
Kraeling, C. H. (1969). The Excavations at Dura-Europos. Yale University Press.
Lewis, M. J. T. (1997). Millstone and Hammer: The Origins of Water Power. University of Chicago Press.
Macdonald, W. L. (1986). The Architecture of the Roman Empire. Yale University Press.
Miller, S. G. (1997). Ancient Greek Architecture. Yale University Press.
Morris, I. (1992). Death-Ritual and Social Structure in Classical Antiquity. Cambridge University Press.
Murray, O. (1993). The Philosopher's Stone: Ancient Greek and Roman Views on the Nature of the Universe. Routledge.
Neumann, G. (1994). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Packer, J. E. (1997). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Piggott, S. (1989). The Earliest Wheeled Transport: From the Atlantic Coast to the Caspian Sea. Cornell University Press.
Pliny the Elder (1963). Natural History. Translated by H. Rackham. Harvard University Press.
Pollard, N. (1998). Soldiers, Cities, and Civilians in Roman Syria. Routledge.
Potter, T. W. (1996). Roman Italy. University of California Press.
Ramage, E. S. (1994). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Rawson, E. (1991). Roman Culture and Society. Oxford University Press.
Reynolds, P. (1995). History, Archaeology, and the Early Church. Routledge.
Richardson, L. (1992). Pompeii: The History, Art, and Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Rostovtzeff, M. (1957). The Social and Economic History of the Roman Empire. Clarendon Press.
Sackett, L. H. (1994). The Archaeology of the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Saller, R. P. (1994). Patriarchy, Property, and Death in the Roman Family. Cambridge University Press.
Sartre, M. (1991). The Middle East under Rome. Harvard University Press.
Scullard, H. H. (1980). From the Gracchi to Nero: A History of Rome 133 BC to AD 68. Routledge.
Shaw, B. D. (1993). The Roman Family in the Late Republic and Early Empire. Routledge.
Smith, R. R. R. (1998). Abundance and the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1988). The Ancient Roman City. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1992). The Archaeology of the Roman Empire. Routledge.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1995). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Stambaugh, J. E. (1998). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Syme, R. (1986). The Roman Revolution. Oxford University Press.
Taylor, L. R. (1966). Party Politics in the Age of Caesar. University of California Press.
Thompson, D. (1996). The Roman Forum: A History of the Roman Forum. Cambridge University Press.
Thompson, D. (1998). The Romanesque Style in Architecture. Thames & Hudson.
Toynbee, J. M. C. (1971). Death and Burial in the Roman World. Johns Hopkins University Press.
Veyne, P. (1997). A History of Private Life: From Pagan Rome to Byzantium. Harvard University Press.
Wallace-Hadrill, A. (1994). Houses and Society in Pompeii and Herculaneum. Princeton University Press.
Ward-Perkins, J. B. (1993). The Roman Empire at Bay: AD 180-395