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Historical Figure

Apollodorus of Damascus

Roman

Apollodorus of Damascus was an architect and engineer from Roman Syria, who flourished during the 2nd century AD. As an architect he authored several technical treatises, and his massive architectural output gained him immense popularity during his time. He is one of the few architects whose name survives from antiquity, and is credited with introducing several Eastern innovations to the Roman Imperial style, such as making the dome a standard. He is also known as Apollodorus Mechanicus.

Connection to Damascus

Born in Damascus; his engineering genius was nurtured in the Damascene tradition of Hellenistic science; became the most influential architect of the Roman Empire.

Known for

Designed Trajan's Forum and Column in Rome; built the Danube Bridge; one of the greatest engineers of antiquity.

Lifespan

c. 50 AD – c. 130 AD

Biography

Apollodorus of Damascus was an architect and engineer from Roman Syria, who flourished during the 2nd century AD. As an architect he authored several technical treatises, and his massive architectural output gained him immense popularity during his time. He is one of the few architects whose name survives from antiquity, and is credited with introducing several Eastern innovations to the Roman Imperial style, such as making the dome a standard. He is also known as Apollodorus Mechanicus.