Troubled construction projects are not exclusive to modern times, as history reveals grand and wasteful infrastructure schemes plagued by mismanagement and spiraling costs. Even the Romans, renowned for their architectural achievements, fell victim to abandoned works and white elephants. Pliny the Younger was tasked with sorting out economic messes caused by monumental building projects in ancient cities. Despite mishaps, Emperor Trajan believed in the importance of infrastructure and public buildings if managed properly. The failures of unrealistic projects, like Nero’s abandoned canal, are cautionary tales of ambition exceeding nature’s limits. Vitruvius highlighted the importance of accountability in construction to avoid inexperienced architects operating unchecked.
https://www.historytoday.com/archive/history-matters/ancient-romes-failed-building-projects