Ten Ancient Technologies That Still Influence Us Today

The invention of the wheel revolutionized transportation and machinery, forming the basis for countless modern tools and vehicles.

Roman concrete, or opus caementicium, was used in structures like the Pantheon and aqueducts. Its principles are still foundational to modern construction.

Roman aqueducts demonstrated advanced water management techniques, which inspire modern plumbing and irrigation systems.

Early forms of paper were developed in China, creating the groundwork for communication and documentation worldwide.

Initially used for feng shui, the magnetic compass became crucial for navigation and exploration.

Early surgical tools and techniques, such as scalpels and sutures, informed modern medicine and surgical practices.

Early calendars for agricultural and religious purposes evolved into the Gregorian calendar we use today.

Zhang Heng’s early seismograph influenced the development of modern tools to detect and measure earthquakes.

One of the earliest calculators, the abacus still aids in teaching mathematics and inspires modern computing principles.

Architectural innovations like arches and domes, evident in structures like the Colosseum, are key elements in contemporary architecture and engineering.