The tegulae were flat, rectangular tiles used primarily for the roofing of Roman buildings. They were typically made from fired clay, a material that was abundant and easily worked. The imbrex, on the other hand, was a curved tile that fit over the seams between the tegulae, creating a watertight seal. This ingenious system of interlocking tiles allowed rainwater to run off efficiently, preventing leaks and water damage, which were significant concerns in the rainy seasons of the Mediterranean.
