Terminology
A true arch is a load-bearing arc with elements held together by compression. In much of the world introduction of the true arch was a result of European influence. The term false arch … See more

The large variety of arch shapes (left) can mostly be classified into three broad categories: rounded, pointed, and parabolic See more

The arch became popular in the Roman times and mostly spread alongside the European influence, although it was known and occasionally used much earlier. Many ancient … See more

There are multiple ways to classify an arch:
1. by the geometrical shape of its intrados (for example, See more

A sequence of arches can be grouped together forming an arcade. Romans perfected this form, as shown, for example, by arched … See more

The practical arch bridges are built either as a fixed arch, a two-hinged arch, or a three-hinged arch. The fixed arch is most often used in reinforced concrete bridges and tunnels, which … See more

As a pure compression form, the utility of the arch is due to many building materials, including stone and unreinforced concrete, being strong under See more