Monumental Waste.

The article examines costly and unsuccessful construction projects in ancient Rome, highlighting that mismanagement and waste were not uncommon despite the empire's renowned architectural achievements. It details examples such as abandoned aqueducts and theatres in Bithynia, and Nero's failed canal project from Lake Avernus to the Tiber, illustrating that responsibility for such failures extended beyond emperors to include architects and civic authorities. Roman architect Vitruvius advocated for accountability measures to control costs, noting their absence in his time. The article emphasizes that building projects were collaborative efforts, though historical credit often disproportionately favored patrons over architects and builders.