About the Architecture of Rome Walk in Rome
Roman architecture is a constantly evolving and dynamic aspect of city life, with an illustrious past and exciting future. Edifices dating back millennium can flank those just erected months ago and many churches and civic buildings showcase at least two layers of visible history. This evening walk is a broad exploration of the architecture of Rome, how it has shaped and has been shaped by the political, religious and social events of various eras. Churches, mausoleums, ancient temples, modern shopping centers and Renaissance palazzos are all concentrated in the historical center of Rome, sometimes layered one on top of the other creating a patchwork of styles and centuries.
The walk starts at the newest addition to the city landscape, the revamped Ara Pacis museum designed by American architect Richard Meier. This stark white and glass building is a controversial addition to the Piazza del Augusto Imperatore which also houses the Mausoleum of Emperor Augustus and a building cycle com
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Roman architecture is a constantly evolving and dynamic aspect of city life, with an illustrious past and exciting future. Edifices dating back millennium can flank those just erected months ago and many churches and civic buildings showcase at least two layers of visible history. This evening walk is a broad exploration of the architecture of Rome, how it has shaped and has been shaped by the political, religious and social events of various eras. Churches, mausoleums, ancient temples, modern shopping centers and Renaissance palazzos are all concentrated in the historical center of Rome, sometimes layered one on top of the other creating a patchwork of styles and centuries.
The walk starts at the newest addition to the city landscape, the revamped Ara Pacis museum designed by American architect Richard Meier. This stark white and glass building is a controversial addition to the Piazza del Augusto Imperatore which also houses the Mausoleum of Emperor Augustus and a building cycle commissioned by Mussolini in the 1930s. We will then circle the Palazzo Borghese, a Renaissance palace once owned by the noble Borghese family, which was initially a series of separate buildings later consolidated together by the powerful family.
We will meander through the narrow streets of the Campo Marzio area, the ancient training ground for the Roman army. Here we may stop along the way to observe the remnants of an ancient sundial, or pass by the Galleria Colonna, which now houses a very sleek shopping center. We will then explore the Pantheon, the marvel of engineering and architecture that has mesmerized visitors to Rome since ancient times. The itinerary ends at the Trevi Fountain, sourced by an ancient aqueduct. Here we will discuss the theatrical fountain, its history and ingenious use of urban space.
