In swampy places, alder piles driven close together beneath the foundations of buildings take in the water which their own consistence lacks and remain imperishable forever, supporting structures of enormous weight and keeping them from decay. Thus a material which cannot last even a little while above ground, endures for a long time when covered with moisture.

— Vitruvius De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

More quotes by Vitruvius

De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

De architectura (The Ten Books On Architecture) (-15)

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