The Ten Books on Architecture, 5.3.3

Vitruvius  Parallel editions

‹‹‹ Vitr. 5.3.2 | Table of Contents | Vitr. 5.3.4 ›››

Gwilt translation

3The construction of the foundations will be more easily managed, if the work be on a hill; but if we are compelled to lay them on a plain, or in a marshy spot, the piling and foundations must be conducted as described for the foundations of temples in the third book. On the foundations, steps (gradationes) are raised, of stone and marble.

Morgan translation

3The foundation walls will be an easier matter if they are on a hillside; but if they have to be laid on a plain or in a marshy place, solidity must be assured and substructures built in accordance with what has been written in the third book, on the foundations of temples. Above the foundation walls, the ascending rows of seats, from the substructures up, should be built of stone and marble materials.