Early Empire

With Augustus, the Roman Empire begins, and so does a 200-year period of peace and stability known as the Pax Romana.

27 B.C.E. - 117 C.E.

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Trajan expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest extent, celebrating his victories with this monumental column.

Nothing was more important to a Roman emperor than his image.

Augustus is said to have found Rome a city of brick and left it a city of marble—this altar symbolizes his golden age.

Gladiators, animal hunts, and executions: learn about the Colosseum, a monumental gift to the Roman people.

Rebellion was not uncommon at the fringes of the Roman Empire, and the people of Judea were no exception.

In ancient Rome, official portraits were full of political messages. What does Vespasian’s portrait say about him?

Animal sacrifice played an important role in ancient Roman religion, but what was involved in the preparation?

Is this delicate female portrait what we think? Take part in a discussion of a masterpiece we know little about.

Watch a modern artist engrave a precious gemstone using the techniques of the ancients.

The emperor Titus sacked the temple in Jerusalem and looted its most holy treasures.

Trajan tasked his architect with moving an entire hill to make room for this extravagant public space.

At the end of a Roman triumph, the defeated general was murdered. The victim was marched under this triumphal arch.

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