With the ripening of the fruits in Autumn the leaves begin to wither and the trees, taking up their sap from the earth through the roots, recover themselves and are restored to their former solid texture. But the strong air of winter compresses and solidifies them.

There are many names for winds derived from localities or from the squalls which sweep from rivers or down mountains.

Nothing requires the architect's care more than the due proportions of buildings.

I am moreover inclined to be concise when I reflect on the constant occupation of the citizens in public and private affairs, so that in their few leisure moments they may read and understand as much as possible.

An architect ought to be an educated man so as to leave a more lasting remembrance in his treatises.

Bricks should be made in Spring or Autumn so that they may dry uniformly.

The [engineer] should be equipped with knowledge of many branches of study and varied kinds of learning, for it is by his judgement that all work done by the other arts is put to test. This knowledge is the child of practice and theory.