The evolution of constructions and their structural systems from prehistoric megalithic structures to contemporary megastructures.

Course Content

1. Introduction
2. Structural constructions in Prehistory
   (Megalithic structures, Egypt, Western Asia, Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, early use of stone and timber, post-and-beam systems, corbelled and pseudo-vaulted structures).
3. Antiquity
   (Classical Greece, Rome, Roman construction techniques, arches, Roman trusses, cast masonry and concrete structures).
4. Byzantine Period
   (Development of Roman construction traditions, vaulting and domed structures).
5. Western Middle Ages – Romanesque and Gothic Architecture
   (Evolution of stone architecture, buttresses, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, complex stereotomy, cross vaults).
6. Renaissance and Baroque
   (First phase of revival of historical styles, Brunelleschi’s dome, St. Peter’s Basilica, interventions and transformations of existing structures).
7. 18th Century – Neoclassicism
   (Second phase of revival of historical styles).
8. Structural systems outside Europe
   (Islamic architecture – development of Byzantine traditions, China – timber structures, Latin America – stone masonry constructions).
9. Greek Vernacular Architecture
   (Mainland Greece – stone masonry with horizontal diaphragms and timber roofs).
10. Greek Vernacular Architecture
    (Island regions – load-bearing stone masonry and flat island roofs).
11. 19th Century
    (Late Neoclassicism, metal structures, Greek neoclassical architecture).
12. 20th Century
    (A. Gaudí, Modern Movement, reinforced concrete).
13. Contemporary Megastructures

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• Identify historical structural systems and distinguish the construction techniques and materials used in different historical periods and regions.
• Describe significant monumental, historical, and vernacular structures using appropriate technical terminology.
• Recognize the timeless nature of structural problems and evaluate ways of addressing them through the use of either traditional materials and construction methods or modern technologies.