You are here:

Ancient/Classical History/Rotundas and government buildings

Advertisement

Expert: - 8/11/2006


Question
"I have looked at the history of the rotunda - Roman structure. Can you shed light on the persistent use of this structure for government buildings? What was the original purpose of the rotunda? Is there mythology surrounding it's use? What was its original purpose?"  

Answer
Hello Sandra,

The rotunda was, as you know a round building, which symbolized equality among all who met in the room.

No one was placed higher or lower than anyone else, so it became a symbol of democracy, social equality, impartiality and egalitarianism.  Because of what it symbolizes it has been used in government buildings.

Regards,

Iru

Ancient/Classical History

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Irulan Serena

Expertise

Along with teaching classical Literature for over thirty-eight years, I have also taught history of the Greco-Roman cultures. History and Mythology are, in my opinion, inseparable; it is necessary to have a background in both to have a clear understanding of both ends of the spectrum, the myth and the fact.

Experience

Thirty-eight years of teaching.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.