Roman Structures > Roman Houses
Roman Houses
Background
Roman Houses are one of the most important structures available to archaeologists because they show the increasing wealth of the Romans over time and the increasing social stratification as well. The houses were meant as a display of an individuals wealth and also had various public and private functions. Many Roman Houses were heavily influenced by Greek architectural styles. One famous early Roman house was the House of C. Jucundus and was built around the 2nd century BCE/BC.
A typical Roman house would usually feature a portico which would lead into a central vestibule. From there a hall would usually brand out to an eastern room and a western state dining room. There would also be other rooms such as the Green, Red and Blue Rooms that may open up to a southern portico. Overall Roman house layouts were very open and flowing, with many rooms serving many functions.
