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Ara Pacis

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Shetraveler
Shetraveler
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5 out of 5
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Ara Pacis

  • January 31, 2007
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Shetraveler from Campbell, California
Ara Pacis

Perhaps you’ve already seen the Fora Romana and were bewildered by all the rubble. While each of the Fora are important archaeological sites, one doesn’t really know what they are looking at unless they have a guide (or at least, a guide book). And these two sites are absolutely no fun in the rain. If you are looking for one beautifully preserved monument in Rome that comes with its own guide (for a small price) and shelter, look no further than the Ara Pacis Augustae (Augustus’ Altar of Peace).

Recently housed within a sleek ultra-modern glass boxlike building designed by Richard Meier, the altar itself (which lies within an enclosure decorated on the inside with realistically carved flora and fauna) was originally dedicated in 9 BC to celebrate the peace that Augustus brought to the Roman Empire. The monument is beautifully lit with natural light from the building’s large glass panels so that you can really examine the details of the artfully carved friezes. Upon entering the building you’ll be met by a model of Altar’s original location. This helps you get an idea of the relic’s scale among its other contemporary monuments in the field of Mars. Do pay the small fee to rent the audio guide. It will help you view these friezes in an orderly manner, including the external panel that identifies Augustus and his family. Hours and details can be found at: http://en.arapacis.it

From journal Alternative Rome

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