Timgad VS Pikillacta

For this weeks blog post, we will be exploring two architectural sites that represent hierarchical space formations and social order: the Roman site of Timgad and the Wari military center, Pikillacta.
My own previous knowledge of the Wari is that they were a somewhat violent and militaristic civilization. Their architecture was built for the purpose of having a strong fortress for defense; inspiring intimidation in enemies; and keeping access to their complexes as monitored and closed in as possible. As for Timgad, I do not have any previous knowledge, so let us explore using the power of Google maps.

I will start with Timgad. I see the classic Roman symbol of architecture: the columns. They align in what seems to be a processional way to a Roman archway. The theatre is reminiscent of the dome like structure used in the Colosseum; there definitely seems to be a hierarchy of space through the rows of seats circles around a central ritualistic area. It is quite a vast complex; from an aerial view it seems to expand over quite a large area, and it does remind me of what I have seen of Wari architecture. There are strong, stone walls in a grid-like pattern. In fact, from the aerial view, they seem to be separated into perfect squares. The walls appear to be quite short, but I can't be too sure from the views on Google maps. They certainly do not look tall enough to be solely for defensive purposes.

Now I will be looking at Pikillacta. It is located near a small lake, which seems strategically sensible! Right away I can see huge similarities between the sites. From an aerial view, Pikillacta is created in a square grid as well. I already am familiar with the site, so I know it is made up of fortifying walls that carefully channel you through the complex. These walls are taller and create more of a narrow space compared to Timgad. It definitely has more of a hostile feel to it than Timgad as well, which appears to be more of a community space that involves communal entertainment, markets, and other gathering spaces. These types of spaces are much less apparent in Pikillacta. It is also a little more aggressive by not allowing you to see where you are navigating to with the height of the walls, and even more aggressive is the occasional jutting-out of more rock wall within the already confined rock walls, as if to control and intimidate the navigator even more into staying in line. 

Overall, I would have to compare these two sites by their aerial views more than anything. They both follow a structured grid plan, created by stone walls that control the space of the complex. They both spread over a vast area of space as well, and are probably both intended to intimidate enemies in some way with its vastness and complexity. The main differences are that the Wari definitely meant to create an intimidating, rigid space that not only confines enemies who try to enter, but the Wari people themselves. There is definitely a social hierarchical division going on, where the people in power wish to control every movement of the Wari people throughout the space. As for Timgad, the space definitely appears to be more open with lower, wider spaced walls, allowing you to at least see the landscape around you and a sense of where you are going. It also is more welcoming and communal, with a theatre, a market place, and processional ways that appear to be gathering spots for ritualistic community activities.