Classical writers and ancient construction works

Abstract

Construction works were no less important in the ancient world than they are today in creating the infrastructure consistent with a settled way of life. The importance of these works was not lost on the writers of the time: many are mentioned or described in classical texts. Works variously described or mentioned in these texts range from those associated with the control and utilisation of water, thus providing the basic essential for life, to structures associated with travel and trade, administration, military activities, cultural customs and spiritual beliefs. Taken together with remains of these works and contemporary inscriptions, these descriptions by classical writers reveal much about the motivations and capabilities of people in the ancient world.