Final answer:
Roman architecture was deeply influenced by religion, adapting Greek designs for temples to suit their own deities and later transforming their architectural style to create large interior spaces for Christian practices. The Christian Basilica reflects this shift, focusing on the interior for congregational worship. Innovations like concrete and arches allowed Romans to build impressive interior spaces for religious and civic purposes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Roman architecture was profoundly shaped by the beliefs and rituals of ancient religions. An example of this is the Temple of Jupiter, which was influenced by Greek architecture but featured unique elements like a deep porch and multiple cellas, illustrating the Roman adaptation for their pantheon of gods. The Christian conversion of the Roman Empire brought a shift from the pagan temple focus on external grandeur to an emphasis on the interior space to accommodate the worship practices of Christianity. The Christian Basilica, derived from Roman basilicas originally used for public and administrative purposes, became the standard for Christian worship, emphasizing large interior spaces for congregations.
Roman religious architecture evolved over time to reflect current beliefs. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the Catholic Church commissioned grandiose structures like new churches, fountains, and the reconfiguration of cityscapes such as Rome. Art and architecture served to communicate religious stories, as seen in the biblical narratives depicted in stained glass windows. This use of space and visuals was a means to inspire devotion, communicate religious teachings to an often illiterate population, and attract new converts.
The architectural innovations of the Romans, such as their use of concrete, arches, and vaulting, allowed for the creation of large interior spaces like those in the Pantheon. Accomplishments like the Colosseum and the Markets of Trajan highlight the Roman's use of architecture to express religious and political power and the civic pride of the Roman state.