Step 1 : Introduction to the question " In a Roman building, what was the "Hypocaust"? "
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It is strange to think that something that did not become a feature of homes again until the 20th century dates back as far as 80 BCE when the author and engineer Vitruvius refers to its invention. In fact, there is some evidence it well predates even this, and though not used domestically, heated the temple at Ephesus in the 3rd century BCE.
The word derives from the Latin and originally the ancient Greek, and means simply "under" (the prefix as in "hypothermia") and "burn" (as in the word "caustic").
The engineering was both simple and sophisticated, with a furnace filtering heat through layers of tiles and concrete. There were even systems to allow for ventilation and temperature regulation. The only drawback was that it was incredibly expensive; thus limiting its use to public buildings and the most luxurious of villas.
It is worth noting that though we associate the word "hypocaust" more or less exclusively with Roman buildings, there is evidence that something of a similar nature was also used in other ancient civilisations; including those in Korea and Pakistan.
More Info:
en.wikipedia.org
Step 2 : Answer to the question " In a Roman building, what was the "Hypocaust"? "
The bath house:
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