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cld1984 t1_j3f8kom wrote

I never considered it before, but seeing them mention hundreds of structures set up to facilitate astronomical observations makes me wonder if, before the advent of time measurement devices, other buildings were positioned based at least partly on the Sun and Moon.

Like, would the local shop position his building so the sun shines through his front door right when he plans to open. Of course this would be at different times during the year, but maybe it could work.

I dunno though. Seems like a lot of work for convenience.

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KindAwareness3073 t1_j3fdksv wrote

In much of the ancient world getting enough sunlight was not the problem.

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TheGrandExquisitor t1_j3ff7a8 wrote

Depends. Inside could become very dark even on a bright day. And windows weren't always convenient because pane glass wasn't around the weather could be an issue.

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KindAwareness3073 t1_j3fg42q wrote

As an architect I can assure you, ancient architects thought a lot about the sun, for a variety of reasons, but primarily as a source of warmth in winter months. Roman baths and their wall openings were carefully designed to let in direct winter sunlight but not summer.

Edit: there/their

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unechartreusesvp t1_j3gdvay wrote

Actually not only sun and moon, but also Venus, and other celestial objects.

Many sites include some astronomical observation points, done of them to keep the solar year calendar in place, like knowing when to add more days to accommodate the 365 solar year in conjunction with the the solstices.

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fleebleganger t1_j3ih2zn wrote

Sunshine was a huge deal before lightbulbs.

Artificial lighting used to be really expensive, so light in the morning and evening, while receiving shade at midday would have absolutely thought of.

My opinion is the modern world, especially in developed nations, is too dependent on conveniences like light bulbs, microwaves, salted roads. Now no one has to give any thought to other people or the world around them, just what they need in the moment. People being selfish isn’t new, but now the whole world seems to cater to being selfish.

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Mr_B0b_Dobalina t1_j3hlwpu wrote

More that these cities were heavily planned, and every building had to be in orientation with the city plan. Individuals weren't making decisions on how to build their buildings.

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