The volcanic stone native to Italy used by the Romans before concrete was tuff. Tuff is a type of rock formed from volcanic ash and rock fragments. It was a popular building material due to its relative ease of extraction and workability.
In the late 2nd century B.C.E., the Romans began to utilize travertine for construction purposes. Travertine is a form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, often used in building facades, flooring, and sculptures. The Romans likely started using travertine due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. Its unique properties made it a preferred choice for various architectural projects during that period.
In summary:
1. Before concrete, the Romans used tuff, a volcanic stone native to Italy.
2. In the late 2nd century B.C.E., they started using travertine for construction due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic qualities.
