Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, sometime after 27 BCE, writes De architectura, an important treatise on ancient architectural theory and practice (the sole surviving such treatise on this subject).

Vitruvius takes a conservative approach to style and makes little reference to buildings of his own time.

The influential work consists of ten volumes: (1) the architect's training and aims, (2) materials, and the origin of architecture, (3) proportions, (4) the Greek orders and temples, (5) other civic structures, (6) domestic architecture, (7) stucco work and painting, (8) water and aqueducts, (9) astronomy, and (10) civil and military machines.

Vitruvius reveals, through his prefaces, that his expertise had brought him to the attention of Caesar; he later works for Augustus.