Early empire

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

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

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

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.
Volubilis

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

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

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

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

Rebellion was not uncommon at the fringes of the Roman Empire, and the people of Judea were no exception.
Silver shekel of the Second Jewish Revolt

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

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

Is this delicate female portrait what we think? Take part in a discussion of a masterpiece we know little about.
Portrait Bust of a Flavian Woman (Fonseca ...

Watch a modern artist engrave a precious gemstone using the techniques of the ancients.
The art of gem carving

The emperor Titus sacked the temple in Jerusalem and looted its most holy treasures.
The Spoils of Jerusalem, Arch of Titus

Trajan tasked his architect with moving an entire hill to make room for this extravagant public space.
The Forum and Markets of Trajan

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

Even the smallest carvings, seen only by a select few, could carry a strong political message.