Art history class started later than usual today, and the class took a scenic walk to the more northern side of Rome. Under the intense heat rays, we made our way to Ara Pacis Auguste, also known as the Altar of Augustan Peace. On 13 BC, it was commissioned by the Senate of Rome to honor Augustus’ victories over Spain and France and served as a symbol of peace during his reign.
The newest building to be constructed in Rome since the last 50 years, its modern look interestingly juxtaposed itself with the significantly older surrounding buildings. Many Romans found this building controversial for this very reason. With the instillation of water-flowing walls and double glass window panes, the contemporary architecture of the building simply appeared out of place.
Regardless, Ara Pacis itself was a wonder. Composed of white marble, the altar was once a place where sacrifices were performed. Emperors, priests, and vestal virgins would slaughter large animals as offerings to the Gods. The reliefs on the side panels were intricately carved and depicted scenes that included historical Roman portraits and mythological figures. The walk was silent inside the actual monument; the ornate masterpiece left everyone speechless.
The newest building to be constructed in Rome since the last 50 years, its modern look interestingly juxtaposed itself with the significantly older surrounding buildings. Many Romans found this building controversial for this very reason. With the instillation of water-flowing walls and double glass window panes, the contemporary architecture of the building simply appeared out of place.
Regardless, Ara Pacis itself was a wonder. Composed of white marble, the altar was once a place where sacrifices were performed. Emperors, priests, and vestal virgins would slaughter large animals as offerings to the Gods. The reliefs on the side panels were intricately carved and depicted scenes that included historical Roman portraits and mythological figures. The walk was silent inside the actual monument; the ornate masterpiece left everyone speechless.
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| The Ara Pacis is housed in a modern museum. |
"water-flowing walls and double glass window panes" Really? It does sound extremely out of place. I love how serious you look in this video. It looks pretty insane on video, most definitely more so in real life though.
ReplyDeleteooohhh that picture reminds me of my trip to new york when i went to the met! i miss museums...
ReplyDeleteI would be speechless just being in a place like that.
ReplyDeleteWow... Very interesting and that is a lovely picture.
ReplyDelete