The Ten Books on Architecture, 5.2.1

Vitruvius  Parallel editions

‹‹‹ Vitr. 5.1.10 | Table of Contents | Vitr. 5.2.2 ›››

Gwilt translation

2The treasury, prison, and curia are to adjoin the forum, to which their dimensions are to be proportionate. First of the curia, which must be suitable to the importance of the community or state. If square, its height is to be once and a half its width; but if oblong, the length and width must be added together, and one half of their sum assigned for the height up to the lacunaria.

Morgan translation

2The treasury, prison, and senate house ought to adjoin the forum, but in such a way that their dimensions may be proportionate to those of the forum. Particularly, the senate house should be constructed with special regard to the importance of the town or city. If the building is square, let its height be fixed at one and one half times its breadth; but if it is to be oblong, add together its length and breadth and, having got the total, let half of it be devoted to the height up to the coffered ceiling.