Ara Pacis Augustae

Definition

The Ara Pacis Augustae, or Altar of Augustan Peace, is a monumental altar in Rome dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace. Built between 13 and 9 BCE during the reign of Augustus, it symbolizes the peace and prosperity brought to the Roman Empire through Augustus's leadership and reforms. The altar is adorned with intricate reliefs that depict various mythological and historical scenes, emphasizing the themes of peace and fertility as part of Augustus's cultural achievements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis was commissioned by the Roman Senate to honor Augustus's return to Rome after his campaigns in Gaul and Hispania.
2. The altar features detailed reliefs that celebrate the imperial family, agricultural abundance, and the goddess Pax, symbolizing peace.
3. It was originally located in an open-air setting but has since been housed in a modern museum that emphasizes its historical significance.
4. The design of the Ara Pacis reflects classical Greek architectural elements, showcasing the blend of Hellenistic culture within Roman art.
5. The altar serves as an important representation of Augustus's propaganda efforts to legitimize his power and promote the stability and prosperity he brought to Rome.

Review Questions

• How does the Ara Pacis Augustae reflect Augustus's vision for peace and stability in Rome?
  • The Ara Pacis Augustae is a direct representation of Augustus's vision for peace, capturing the essence of Pax Romana. Through its dedication to the goddess of peace, along with reliefs depicting celebrations of family and agricultural prosperity, it embodies Augustus’s desire to showcase how his leadership restored stability after years of civil war. The imagery used serves not only as a religious tribute but also as a political statement highlighting the positive changes under his rule.
• Analyze the artistic techniques employed in the reliefs of the Ara Pacis and their significance in conveying Augustan ideals.
  • The reliefs on the Ara Pacis utilize intricate relief sculpture techniques that create depth and narrative through their composition. Artists depicted both mythological figures and members of Augustus's family, showcasing themes of fertility and abundance. These artistic choices are significant because they communicate Augustan ideals by portraying his lineage as divinely sanctioned and emphasizing his role as a bringer of peace. This melding of art with political messaging served to reinforce Augustus's authority and his connection to Rome's prosperity.
• Evaluate the impact of the Ara Pacis Augustae on our understanding of Augustan cultural achievements and their lasting legacy on Roman identity.
  • The Ara Pacis Augustae provides critical insight into the cultural achievements of Augustus, particularly in how art and architecture were utilized as tools for political propaganda. By evaluating its design, themes, and purpose, we see how Augustus crafted a narrative around peace and stability that helped shape Roman identity during his reign. Its lasting legacy can be observed in how subsequent leaders emulated this approach to solidify their power while also reflecting on how public monuments continue to influence national identity through history.

Related terms

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

Augustan Reforms: A series of political, military, and social reforms initiated by Augustus that transformed Rome from a republic to an empire.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where the figures are carved into a background, creating a three-dimensional effect, commonly used in the decoration of the Ara Pacis.