2011 Hertford College Magazine (Issue 91)

Hertford past and present: static stability of the Basilica of Maxentius
Basilica of Maxentius in its current condition Reconstruction of the Basilica of Maxentius
is an important part of the architectural
heritage of Ancient Rome. It is vital that
we find a way of preserving it in its current
state - but researchers have yet to develop
a satisfactory standardised method
of assessing the safety of complex vaulted
structures in unreinforced masonry.
“ It is vital that we find a way
of preserving it in its current
state ”
Hence my survey. This set out to analyse
both the original and current state
of vaults of the Basilica of Maxentius, in
order to identify any problems with the
“ These vaults
were the largest
known vaults to
be constructed in
the Roman
Empire ”
Plan of the
Basilica of Maxentius
original design and construction and to
determine if the structure is now stable.
The building was not designed as a traditional
basilica. Instead, in an attempt
to construct a fire-proof structure, it was
modelled on the great frigidaria of the
large baths of Rome. The building comprises
three main sections: a central nave
originally covered with three groin vaults,
and two side aisles covered by three barrel
vaults each. With a footprint of 90m
by 65m, these barrel and groin vaults
were the largest known vaults to be constructed
in the Roman Empire and the
first opus caementicium (Roman concrete)
vaults built in Ancient Rome. But
18. HERTFORD COLLEGE MAGAZINE