The arch buildings created by the Romans are considered to be one of the most efficient means of supporting weight and spanning wide spaces because of its strong form. It is able to withstand winds because most of the winds force goes through the arches. This style of architecture saved on building materials because of all the open space. Solid walls require a lot more materials.
The weight and thrust of an arch is forced sideways and downward onto the supporting piers that hold up the curved portion of the arch. The arch itself is built of wedge shaped blocks that are called voussoirs. …
