Every society builds, and many, if not all, utilize architectural structures as markers to define place, patron, or experience. Often we consider these architectural markers as "monuments" or "monumental" buildings. Ancient Rome, in particular, is a society recognized for the monumentality of its buildings. While few would deny that the term "monumental" is appropriate for ancient Roman architecture, the nature of this characterization and its development in pre-Roman Italy is rarely considered carefully. What is "monumental" about Etruscan and early Roman architecture?

Delving into...