Ara Pacis

Definition

The Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, is a monumental altar in Rome dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. Completed in 9 BCE, it commemorates the peace established by Emperor Augustus after his successful campaigns and symbolizes the prosperity and stability of the Roman Empire during his reign. This altar is an important example of how art was used to promote political messages and ideals in ancient Rome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was commissioned by the Roman Senate to honor Emperor Augustus and celebrate his achievements in restoring peace to Rome after years of civil war.
2. It features intricate reliefs that depict historical scenes, mythological figures, and personifications of virtues such as fertility and abundance.
3. The altar is oriented to the sun, which symbolically links Augustus with divine favor and legitimizes his rule.
4. The Ara Pacis reflects Augustan ideals of family values and civic duty, promoting a vision of a united and prosperous Roman society.
5. In the 20th century, the Ara Pacis was reconstructed in a modern museum setting, allowing for better preservation and public accessibility.

Review Questions

• How does the design and iconography of the Ara Pacis reflect the political ideology of Augustus?
  • The design and iconography of the Ara Pacis are deeply intertwined with Augustus's political ideology. The altar's reliefs not only depict significant events from Roman history but also emphasize themes such as peace, prosperity, and the importance of family. By showcasing images that celebrate these ideals, Augustus effectively used the Ara Pacis as a propaganda tool to reinforce his image as a bringer of peace and stability to Rome, aligning himself with divine favor.
• Evaluate the significance of relief sculptures on the Ara Pacis in conveying messages about Roman identity and values.
  • The relief sculptures on the Ara Pacis play a crucial role in conveying messages about Roman identity and values by illustrating key aspects of society, including familial relationships, civic responsibility, and divine protection. The detailed depictions reflect the cultural norms and ideals valued by Romans during Augustus's reign, such as respect for tradition and the importance of social order. Through these artistic expressions, the Ara Pacis serves not only as a religious monument but also as a reflection of the broader societal aspirations within the Roman Empire.
• Analyze how the establishment of monuments like the Ara Pacis contributed to shaping the narrative of Rome's transformation under Augustus.
  • Monuments like the Ara Pacis were instrumental in shaping the narrative of Rome's transformation under Augustus by visually articulating his achievements and ideals. The altar stands as a testament to Augustus's success in restoring peace after years of turmoil, linking his leadership directly to divine favor. By commissioning such grand structures, Augustus cultivated a legacy that emphasized stability, prosperity, and moral values within Roman society. This strategic use of monumental art solidified his position as a pivotal figure in Rome's history while crafting an enduring image that would influence future generations.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability across the Roman Empire that lasted for about 200 years, beginning with Augustus's reign.

Augustan Art: A style of art that flourished during the reign of Augustus, characterized by a focus on idealism, harmony, and the portrayal of public virtue.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a flat surface, prominently featured on the Ara Pacis to depict various scenes of Roman life and mythology.