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700 BCE
700 BCE – Flat Stone Lintels in Ancient Greece
Greek buildings used flat stone beams (called lintels) before true arches. These were heavy and could break easily. -
600 BCE
600 BCE – Early Greek Arches in Tombs
Greeks started using corbel arches in tombs and underground spaces. These weren’t true arches but showed the beginning of curved building shapes. -
100 BCE
100 BCE – Romans Perfect the True Arch
The Romans used keystone arches in buildings, bridges, and aqueducts. This helped them build taller and stronger structures. -
300
300 CE – Arches in Roman Basilicas
Arches became common inside large buildings and churches. They helped create large open spaces without columns in the middle. -
1100
1100 CE – Pointed Arches in Gothic Architecture
Builders in Europe used pointed arches in cathedrals (like Notre Dame). Pointed arches spread weight better and allowed for taller buildings. -
1400
1400 CE – Renaissance Arches Return to Roman Style
Architects studied Roman ruins and used rounded arches again. This created beautiful and balanced buildings. -
1700 CE – Arches in Bridges and Government Buildings
Builders used stone and brick arches in bridges, train stations, and courthouses. -
1800 CE – Iron Arches in the Industrial Age
Iron allowed wider, taller arches in railways, factories, and greenhouses. -
1900 CE – Reinforced Concrete Arches
Builders used concrete and steel to make strong arch bridges and buildings. -
2000s–Today – Modern Arches in Stadiums & Museums
Architects use new materials to make creative arch shapes in modern buildings.