Vitruvius was a Roman architect and engineer, best known for his work, De Architectura, which is the only surviving major treatise on architecture from antiquity. He emphasized the importance of functionality, durability, and beauty in buildings, principles that continue to influence architecture today. His writings also cover topics such as city planning, construction materials, and the role of the architect. Vitruvius is often regarded as the father of architecture, and his ideas laid the groundwork for future architectural theory and practice, making him a pivotal figure in the history of design.