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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The Roman emperor Augustus brought many ancient Egyptian obelisks back to the the city of Rome.

From Augustus, to Mussolini, and now Bulgari, the long strange history of the Mausoleum of Augustus.

The Pont du Gard is one of the greatest public works projects spearheaded in the Augustan age.

The Mauritanian capital, founded in the 3rd century B.C.E., became an important outpost of the Roman Empire and was graced with many fine buildings.

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.

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