Ara Pacis

Overview

The Ara Pacis Augustae (Altar of Augustan Peace) is an absolute masterpiece of ancient Roman sculpture. It is beautifully displayed inside a striking, ultra-modern glass and travertine pavilion designed by Richard Meier, sitting right alongside the Tiber River.

Highlights

• The Imperial Procession: The breathtaking exterior marble reliefs depicting Emperor Augustus, his family, senators, and priests in an astonishingly lifelike religious procession.
• The Altar: The intricately carved inner sacrificial altar surrounded by stunning floral motifs and allegorical panels representing the abundance of peace.
• The Pavilion: Meier's 2006 museum building itself is spectacular, providing brilliant natural light that perfectly highlights the deep carvings.

History

Commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BC, it was built specifically to celebrate the triumphant return of Emperor Augustus from military campaigns in Gaul and Spain, officially marking the beginning of the Pax Romana (two centuries of Roman peace). It was lost in the mud of the Tiber for centuries before being excavated and painstakingly reassembled in the 1930s under Mussolini.

Visitor Tips

• Audio Guard: The intricate details on the reliefs represent specific, identifiable historical figures; grab an audio guide to fully understand who is who.
• Timing: Because it is climate-controlled and rarely overwhelmingly crowded, it acts as a perfect, quiet afternoon escape from the Roman heat.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.