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Building History I
Baugeschichte I
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:00:51
Abstract
History of building from classical antiquity to modernity: building types, constructions, forms, with particular reference to functional issues such as flexibility of use, statics, durability. This is not a mere history lecture, but an important part of the basic introduction into construction.
Objective
Participants know the fundamentals of building history, including landmark monuments of each era, key historic constructions and forms. They are able to "read" a historic building and to relate it to building history. They are aware of the variety of historic building constructions.
Content
Building history I covers the period from classical Greek antiquity to Gothic architecture. The principal topics include construction issues such as Greek megalithic buidling, Roman mortar-and-rubble construction, and Gothic rationalism of vaulted architecture. Within the Vitruvian and Albertian triad of firmitas, utilitas and venustas, we focus on the first two topics, whereas the last topic (deciphering the "meaning" of architecture) stands at the heart of the "architectural history" lectures. The present lecture contributes essentially to deepening knowledge about historic constructions, an indispensable precondition for buildig within existing fabric.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Please keep a tight record of manuscript notes yourself. Lecture notes to some topics will be provided. pdf of lecture slides will be on line before each lecture.
Literature
Will be announced during the lectures.
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Website der Professur Holzer
- Recording
- Videoportal der ETH Zürich
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 45 minutes
- Aids
- Wörterbuch (nicht elektronisch)
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture |
Baugeschichte I
Keine Lehrveranstaltung am 28.10. (Seminarwoche) sowie in den beiden letzten Semesterwochen (vor Schlussabgaben).
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2 h weekly |
Offered In
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MAS in Preservation and Construction History (Start: Every two years in the autumn semester with an even numbered year Duration: 4 semesters part time)