Introduction to Architecture and Pre-Historic Structures

This flashcard set covers the basic elements and factors of architecture, structural principles, and the development of pre-historic dwellings and monuments.

Utility and function (Utilitas)

The architectural element focusing on utility and function, involving the need for enclosed space and shelter from the weather.

Structural Consideration (Firmitas)

The architectural element representing structural considerations and resistance against various forces.

Aesthetic (Venustas)

The architectural element of aesthetics, including traditional usage, natural conditions, and practical necessity.

Geological Influence

A factor in the development of architecture related to the availability of natural materials, always connected with geographical and climate factors.

Climate Influence

The factor that determines characteristics such as the thickness of walls or the number of windows based on weather conditions like rain and sun.

Religious Influence

A factor based on emotional and spiritual concepts and the symbolism present within a structure depending on the religion.

Post and Lintel

A structural principle where a horizontal member or header is supported by two vertical posts that carry the weight of the structure.

Arch and Vault

A structural element used to span the space between walls or other supports to create a roof or a ceiling.

Gorbel Arch

A black projecting from a wall supporting a weight, based on the same principle as a cantilever, used to create a tunnel.

Cohesive Construction

A structural principle involving the use of different materials together in one structure, such as wood and steel.

Truss Framework

A skeletal support or framework placed before the cover sheet or roof is installed to provide protection.

Animism

A religious concept developed in pre-historic times where people worshipped visible objects or animals, giving them names and symbols.

Nomadic

A social condition or lifestyle where humans move from one place to another once food sources are exhausted.

Paleolithic Age (Stone Age)

A period where humans lived a nomadic life, created tools for hunting and fishing, learned cave writing, and resided near water sources.

Neolithic (New Stone Age)

A period where humans learned to polish stone tools, domesticate animals, farm, and establish permanent living settlements.

Jericho, Palestine

Known as the earliest known town, measuring $40,000$ square meters with houses and brick walls plastered in mud.

Catalhuyuk, Turkey

One of the best preserved Neolithic towns, dating from $6,700 - 5,700\,BC$ and spanning $130,000$ square meters.

Bronze and Iron Age

A period where humans discovered bronze and metal for advanced carpentry and masonry, and used iron for hunting weapons.

Rock Cave

A common building typology that provides natural protection as a dwelling.

Lake Dwellings

Homes supported by wooden piles to provide protection against land animals.

Tepee

A conical tent with a framework made of poles.

Igloo

An Eskimo house constructed using blocks made of snow.

Wigwam

An American Indian dwelling that can be round or oval, similar in concept to a tepee but larger in structure.

Hogan

A traditional dwelling of the Navajo people in the southwestern United States made of logs and mud, always facing the sun in the east.

Pueblo

A multi-story stone community dwelling used by Native American people like the HOPI and ZUNI.

Trullo

A dry stone dwelling without mortar, featuring a conical roof and thick walls.

Menhir

A monolithic structure from the Bronze Age consisting of a single standing stone; 'men' means stone and 'hir' means long.

Dolmen

A monument or burial site made of two or more upright stones supporting a large flat stone, meaning 'Stone Table'.

Cromlech

Large stones arranged in a circle or oval shape for ceremonial use, where 'crom' means bent/curved and 'llech' means slab/flat.

Cairn

A man-made pile of stones that serves as a burial monument or a marker.