WantedInRome is reporting:
Since its opening in April 2006 l'Ara Pacis has had more than 200,000 visitors.
January 2007 Archives
By the late first century B.C., Augustus and the ruling Roman elite were intensely conscious of Rome's position as heir and administrator of the Greek legacy in all its cultural, political, and economic ramifications. But they were also committed to the belief that the Roman state could meet the imperial challenge only by renewing and revitalizing popular belief in the national mores and institutions which had been progressively eroded by the decades of military and political strife, social unrest, and cultural confrontation endemic to the Late Republic...
This is the introduction to an excellent new paper/blog post by Brian Spenser about the Ara Pacis.
In Rome the other day, Richard Meier's design for the Ara Pacis was publicly burnt in the streets by an enraged critic, who described it as "an indecent cesspit by a useless architect". Right or wrong, he seized the headlines. We need a few bonfires.
Interesting article from cafebable.com:
How does the ‘Eternal City' juggle the need to preserve its past with the equally important need to construct its future?
In his design for a new museum to house the Ara Pacis, a Roman altar commemorating Augustus' victory in Gaul and Spain in 15 BC, Richard Meier was always going to have to tread carefully. Not only was the American ‘star' architect chosen over local candidates, but this would be the first modern architectural project to be undertaken in Rome's historical centre for more than 60 years. Could a contemporary architect really succeed in reconciling 21st century design with the ancient landmarks and heritage of the Eternal City - among them the mausoleum of Emperor Augustus which borders the new building?
More here.
Recent Comments