How Did They Do That?

I marvel at the brilliance and creativity of mankind, particularly that of past generations.  The engineering and architecture of history is amazing especially considering the knowledge and technology they had to work with.

Roman Coliseum (2000 years old).  Network of tunnels and prison cells below the floor.  Covered seating for the upper class.  Could be flooded for aquatic battles.

Theatre next to Acropolis in Athens (2000+ years old).  Beautiful.  Acoustics for all in attendance.  Versatile stage.

Aqua duct in Segovia, Spain (2000 years old).  Constructed by the Romans.  Beautiful design.  How did they design it?  How did they construct it?  How did they come up with the idea to channel water across the countryside?

Streets of Pompeii (2500 years old).  Raised crosswalk to help keep your feet dry and clean.  Openings in the raised crosswalk to control traffic, this street is a one way.  Streets with effective and efficient waste and water drainage.

Pompeii.  Indoor plumbing and public water fountains.  I drank out of this water fountain, although the tap is new the fountain itself is original.

Stonehenge, England (3000 years old).  Stones came from several hundred miles away.  Tongue and groove design to help stones fit together.  How did they stack the stones?

Castle on Dordogne River, France (1000 years old).  How did they get the stones to the top of the cliff?  Build a castle so imposing that it deters invaders from even attempting capture.  Conversely aggressors build weapons so threatening that targets surrender.  Many kingdoms were saved/captured without a battle ever taking place.

Neuschwanstein, Germany (500 years old).  Incredible engineering and architecture.  How did they get the materials to the top of the cliff?  What kind of plans or blue prints did they use?  How did they heat/cool the castle and provide sufficient lighting?

Oslo Ballet and Opera House (completed 2007) with Barcode District in the left background.  My favorite attraction in Oslo.  Beautiful and fun (you may walk anywhere/everywhere on the "roof").  Made to look like an iceberg.

I marvel at and enjoy engineering and architectural wonders around us.  Take away modern technology/equipment and the old structures become that much more impressive.