Ara Pacis (Ara Pacis Augustae) 🏛️🌿 | Walking Tour of Rome in a Day
Ara Pacis (Ara Pacis Augustae) 🏛️🌿
The Ara Pacis (Ara Pacis Augustae), or Altar of Augustan Peace, is one of the most important monuments from Ancient Rome. Built between 13 and 9 BCE, the altar was commissioned by the Roman Senate to honor the return of Emperor Augustus from his campaigns in Hispania and Gaul. It serves as a symbol of the Pax Romana—the long period of peace and stability that Augustus brought to the Roman Empire. The altar is housed in the modern Museo dell'Ara Pacis, a striking glass-and-marble structure designed by American architect Richard Meier. The intricate reliefs on the altar depict religious scenes, mythological figures, and members of the imperial family, offering a fascinating glimpse into Roman art and propaganda. A visit to the Ara Pacis is a journey back to the height of Roman power and artistic achievement.
1. Google Maps Link:
Find the Ara Pacis Museum here: Ara Pacis on Google Maps 🗺️
2. Next Subway Station Nearby:
The Ara Pacis Museum is located along the Lungotevere riverside, close to the Piazza di Spagna and Via del Corso areas. It’s accessible by foot, bus, or metro:
- The nearest metro station is "Flaminio" (Line A – Red Line), about a 10-minute walk from the museum.
- Bus Lines 🚌 – Several bus lines stop nearby, including 70, 81, 117, 160, and 628. The closest bus stop is Piazza Augusto Imperatore.
3. Good Places to Eat Nearby:
There are plenty of excellent dining options near the Ara Pacis Museum, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants:
- Ginger Sapori e Salute 🥗 – Located on Via Borgognona, this modern, health-conscious restaurant offers fresh salads, organic dishes, and cold-pressed juices. It’s a great spot for a light and healthy lunch near the museum.
- Ristorante Alfredo alla Scrofa 🍝 – A historic restaurant famous for its Fettuccine Alfredo, located just a short walk from the Ara Pacis. This is where the iconic pasta dish was invented!
- Il Brillo Parlante 🍕 – A cozy yet lively restaurant offering pizza, pasta, and Roman specialties. It’s located near Via del Corso, making it a convenient stop after visiting the museum.
- La Buvette 🍷 – A charming and elegant restaurant with a lovely outdoor seating area, just a few steps away from Via del Corso. It’s perfect for enjoying a relaxing meal with traditional Italian dishes and excellent wine.
4. Best Photo Spots:
The Ara Pacis Museum and its surroundings offer several great photo opportunities:
- Exterior of the Museum 📸 – The modern design of the Museo dell'Ara Pacis stands in stark contrast to the ancient monument it houses. Standing outside the museum, you can capture the sleek, minimalist architecture of Richard Meier’s building with the ancient Roman altar visible through the glass.
- Detail Shots of the Altar 🔍 – Inside the museum, you’ll want to take close-up shots of the intricate reliefs on the altar. The carvings depict detailed scenes of Roman religious rituals, family life, and mythological figures, making for beautiful and historically rich photos.
- Lungotevere and Tiber River 🌅 – The museum is located right along the Lungotevere riverbank, offering views of the Tiber River and nearby bridges. A photo of the river with the museum in the background makes for a picturesque shot.
- Piazza Augusto Imperatore 🎯 – Right next to the museum is the historic Mausoleum of Augustus, another impressive Roman monument. You can capture both the ancient mausoleum and the modern museum in a single frame.
5. Opening Times:
The Museo dell'Ara Pacis is open to the public throughout the week. Here are the general visiting hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Last admission is at 6:30 PM.
- The museum is closed on December 25th and January 1st.
⚠️ Note: Opening hours may vary slightly during holidays or due to special events, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
6. Entrance Fee:
The Museo dell'Ara Pacis charges an admission fee. Here are the ticket prices:
- Full Price: €13
- Reduced Price: €11 (for EU citizens aged 18-25, teachers, and seniors)
- Free Admission: Children under 18, residents of Rome on the first Sunday of every month, and certain other groups (like disabled visitors with an assistant).
🎟️ Tip: Consider purchasing a Roma Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions. The Ara Pacis is included in the pass, which can save you money on entry fees.
7. Additional Insider Tips:
- Visit at Night 🌙 – Occasionally, the Ara Pacis Museum hosts special night openings or events where the altar and its reliefs are beautifully illuminated. If you happen to visit during one of these nights, the atmosphere is magical, and it offers a unique way to experience the monument.
- Check for Temporary Exhibitions 🖼️ – The Museo dell'Ara Pacis regularly hosts temporary exhibitions in addition to the altar itself. These exhibitions often focus on Roman history, art, or architecture, and can add an extra layer of interest to your visit.
- Combine with a Visit to the Mausoleum of Augustus 🏛️ – Right next to the Museo dell'Ara Pacis is the recently restored Mausoleum of Augustus, which has reopened to the public. It’s the final resting place of Emperor Augustus and other members of the imperial family. Combining a visit to both sites offers a deeper understanding of Augustan Rome.
- Avoid Peak Hours ⏰ – The Ara Pacis Museum is usually less crowded than other major attractions like the Colosseum or Vatican Museums, but it can still get busy during the afternoons. Try visiting in the morning for a quieter experience.
- Venture to Villa Borghese 🌳 – After visiting the Ara Pacis, consider taking a short walk to Villa Borghese Gardens, one of Rome’s largest and most beautiful parks. It’s a peaceful spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.
8. Hidden Gem:
For a hidden gem near the Ara Pacis, head to Palazzo Altemps 🏛️, a Renaissance palace that houses part of the National Roman Museum collection. Located just a 10-minute walk from the museum, Palazzo Altemps features stunning Roman sculptures, including the Ludovisi Throne and Ares Ludovisi. The palace itself is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and often flies under the radar o...
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