††††An arch is a curved structure of masonry that supports the weight of building material over an open space.
Arches were used by Sumerians around 3500 BC, as were columns, domes and vaults. The arch was an important development as it was a strong structure and could be used in all sorts of buildings, such as aqueducts, bridges, and houses.
The Romans made common use of the arch and it is still used in many buildings today.
