Ara Pacis Museum

The Museum of the Ara Pacis, located along the Lungotevere in Augusta in Rome, is one of the most important museums in the city, dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the Ara Pacis Augustae, an ancient Roman altar. This monument, commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BC to celebrate Augustus’ return from campaigns in Hispania and Gaul, was completed and consecrated in 9 BC. Its main purpose was to glorify the peace achieved through the Pax Romana, consolidated during the reign of Augustus. The Ara Pacis is an extraordinary work of art and an exceptional example of Augustan art. The altar is surrounded by a rectangular enclosure in Carrara marble, decorated with sculpted reliefs depicting processions of members of the imperial family and other illustrious figures of the time. The scenes depicted include allegories of peace, prosperity, and sacrifice, making the Ara Pacis a true “poem in marble” celebrating the greatness of Rome and its emperor. After being buried for centuries due to flooding of the Tiber River and urban transformations in Rome, the altar was rediscovered and partially reconstructed in the 1930s. However, the original structure was exposed to damage caused by humidity and pollution, necessitating a more radical intervention to ensure its preservation. In 2006, American architect Richard Meier designed a new building to house the Ara Pacis, creating a contrast between ancient and modern. The museum, made with materials such as glass, travertine, and concrete, offers a contemporary vision that integrates the historic monument into the urban context of Rome. Meier’s structure has sparked contrasting opinions, but has undoubtedly helped protect and enhance the Ara Pacis, allowing visitors to admire its details in optimal conditions. The museum’s design took into account the importance of creating an environment that facilitated the natural lighting of the monument, using large windows and a roof with skylights. This approach not only protects the altar from the elements, but also highlights the beauty of the sculpted reliefs, which emerge with surprising clarity. Inside the museum, the Ara Pacis is displayed in a large central hall, surrounded by spaces for temporary exhibitions that enrich visitors’ experience with thematic exhibitions on Roman art and culture. The museum also houses a digital library dedicated to Augustan culture, offering valuable resources for scholars and history enthusiasts. One of the most interesting aspects of the museum is its ability to combine ancient history and modern architecture. Meier’s building, with its clean lines and modern materials, stands out starkly from the surrounding historic architecture, creating a visual dialogue between past and present. This combination of ancient and modern is particularly evident in the contrast between the Ara Pacis, with its detailed reliefs and marble structure, and the glass and concrete walls of the museum.