Throughout the Republic and into the Empire, clay tiles became a staple in Roman architecture, used in the construction of temples, homes, and public buildings. The development of the Roman roof tile, often referred to as ‘tegula’, involved a sophisticated process of molding, drying, and firing the clay to create a strong and resilient product. The emergence of the ‘imbrices’, or curved tiles, allowed for a more effective interlocking system, enhancing the roof's resistance to water infiltration.