The #RomanEmpire craze continues to spread—with no end in sight.

The gist: An Instagram post from August suggested that women ask the men they know how often they think about the Roman Empire. As it turns out, an awful lot of guys (and plenty of women, too) ponder this historic period quite often, from several times a week to every day.

The reasons for keeping the empire top of mind seem to range from the Romans’ military might to their political prowess to their many technological achievements. And those alluring outfits and libidinous ways probably factor in, too.

But just maybe some of these Roman fanboys and girls are also fixated on this moment in time because this ancient population knew its way around the world of architecture and design.

Just what did the Romans invent?

The Romans were forerunners with their use of concrete and crafting domes and magnificent arches that could withstand greater weights without the need for columns. The result: elegant buildings that have lasted for centuries, some still almost entirely intact.

And Roman building and design concepts persist today.

With 30,000- to 40,000-square-foot mansions currently being built, “this size almost requires a muscular style like Romanesque, since pillars and arches scale well and fill space in a way that provides visual balance,” says Tony Mariotti, real estate agent and owner of RubyHome in Los Angeles.

A lot of eye-popping allure comes with Roman style in the home.

“Some people today are desperate to project success and wealth, and owning a ‘Roman palace’ still has the same wow factor that it had 2,000 years ago,” explains Beverly Solomon of the eponymous design firm.

Are you searching for your slice of the Roman Empire? Here are seven listings that offer the chance to channel your inner Augustus Caesar.

1. 421 Chestnut St Apt 401, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Of course, a former bank is the ideal backdrop for a luxury condo with Roman style. This Philadelphia perch is gilded to the max, including Venetian plaster and a stunning coffered ceiling.

2. 2805 Gibbs Dr, Knoxville, TN 37918

“Both the Greeks and Romans discovered you can define beautiful proportions mathematically,” says Solomon.

Timeless Roman touches that you might spy in some homes today include columns—lots of columns.

Adding these looks into a residential setting can be tricky, as most are “a bit over the top and much depends on scale, materials, and workmanship,” Solomon adds.

But there’s no doubt that a home listed on the National Register of Historic Places has good bones. This dwelling sports neoclassical design, which is influenced by the classic styles in ancient Rome and Greece.

3. 343 Elm, Hungerford, TX 77448

Stately columns up front and a tiered fountain in the rear add to a Romanesque home deep in the heart of Texas.

“Columns are a classical element known for strength and beauty and are mostly used on the exterior of homes to enhance the architectural style,” explains Jessica St. Andre of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty in Sarasota, FL.

4. 404 Jackson St, Vidalia, GA 30474

Here’s more neoclassical architecture at its finest, this time in the Peach State. Also included in the package are original tongue-and-groove floors, chair rails, molding, and five fireplaces. (Get ready to haul wood!)

5. 180 Sage Ave, Lawrence, NY 11559

At $19 million, this beauty is fit for an emperor with deep pockets and a love of Roman touches such as arched windows, Venetian plaster, and grand chandeliers.

There’s also water on three sides and plenty of room to build a pool and tennis court.

Roman Empire archways, whether over doors, atop windows, or vaulted in the middle of a large salon, “are the details we love to see the most because they create a sense of transition and can be used to define spaces or pathways throughout the home,” says St. Andre.

6. 503 8th Ave SW, Rochester, MN 55902

This Midwest grande dame sports two sets of columns and an oculus (which means “eye” in Latin) window. Modern additions include the wraparound porch and the separate “summer home” atop the detached garage.

7. 219 Rigby St, Reevesville, SC 29471

Known as “The Magnolias” due to the same trees surrounding it, this property was built in 1890 and is still going strong. Neoclassical touches here include the graceful columns that dot the porch, though some recent updates are also included (new roof, copper gutters, and new interior lighting).

The post Thinking About the Roman Empire These Days? Try Living It in These Listings With the Enduring Style appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.