Ara Pacis

Definition

The Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, is an ancient Roman monument dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, commissioned by the Senate in 13 BCE to celebrate the return of Emperor Augustus from Hispania and Gaul. This elaborate altar is a key example of Augustan architecture and serves as a significant symbol of peace and prosperity during Augustus's reign, while also showcasing the importance of temples and sacred spaces in Roman culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Ara Pacis is located in Rome and was completed in 9 BCE, signifying a crucial moment in Roman history when peace was established after years of civil war.
2. The altar is adorned with intricate relief sculptures that depict both mythological and historical scenes, emphasizing Augustus's role in restoring peace.
3. It incorporates elements of Greek art and architecture, showcasing the blend of cultures during the Augustan period.
4. The Ara Pacis was rediscovered in the 16th century after being buried for centuries, and it has since been reconstructed in a modern museum setting.
5. It serves not only as a religious site but also as a political statement, promoting the Augustan regime and its ideals of stability and harmony within the empire.

Review Questions

• How does the design and decoration of the Ara Pacis reflect the values and priorities of Augustan Rome?
  • The design and decoration of the Ara Pacis highlight the values of peace, prosperity, and the divine authority of Augustus. The intricate relief sculptures not only depict scenes from Roman mythology but also emphasize Augustus's achievements and lineage. This architectural masterpiece serves to reinforce Augustus's image as a bringer of peace following years of turmoil, thus aligning with his political agenda of stability within Rome.
• Discuss the role of the Ara Pacis within the broader context of sacred spaces in Roman society.
  • The Ara Pacis plays a significant role as one of many sacred spaces in Roman society, where rituals and public ceremonies were conducted to honor deities and commemorate political achievements. It exemplifies how altars were integral to religious practices while simultaneously serving political purposes. The connection between religious devotion and statecraft is evident in how Augustus used this altar to promote his vision for Rome's future, emphasizing unity under his rule.
• Evaluate the impact of the Ara Pacis on our understanding of Augustan ideology and its influence on subsequent Roman architecture.
  • The Ara Pacis greatly impacts our understanding of Augustan ideology by illustrating how Augustus sought to associate himself with peace and divine favor through monumental architecture. Its design set a precedent for future imperial monuments, merging aesthetics with political propaganda. Subsequent Roman architecture continued to utilize similar techniques in combining grandeur with ideological messaging, showcasing how Augustus's vision influenced not just his own time but shaped architectural practices for generations to come.

Related terms

Pax Romana: A period of relative peace and stability throughout the Roman Empire that lasted approximately 200 years, starting with the reign of Augustus.

Temenos: A sacred enclosure reserved for worship and ritual activities, often surrounding a temple or altar in ancient religions.

Imperial Cult: A religious practice in ancient Rome that involved the worship of emperors as divine figures, often linked with temples and altars dedicated to their honor.