Tomb Of Rome’s 1st Emperor To Open After 15 Years Of Restorations
Twenty centuries after its construction, visitors will be able to visit the tomb of Ancient Rome’s first Emperor Augustus in 2021.
The coronavirus pandemic may still be continuing, but this doesn’t mean things aren’t still happening in the background. Having recently reported the future introduction of a retractable floor at the Colosseum in Rome, there is more exciting news relating to the city. 20 centuries after its construction, the tomb of Ancient Rome’s first Emperor Augustus, is set to be open to residents and visitors to Rome in 2021 after almost 15 years of restoration work.
Tomb Of Emperor Augustus To Open
The Mausoleo de Augusto (Tomb of Augustus) is dedicated to Augustus, who was also known as Octavian. He took the reins of power in Rome from Julius Caesar following his assassination. Augustus then went on to transform the Roman Republic into the famed Roman Empire which left its mark all over the world.
It was Augustus himself that ordered the construction of the mausoleum more than 30 years before his death in 14 CE. Augustus went on to be interred there, along with other members of his dynasty, known as the Julio-Claudians.
About the Tomb of Augustus
The Mausoleo is a huge, circular tomb and is one of the largest in the city of Rome and the ancient world. Archaeologists believe it was covered in white marble with rich decorations when it was first constructed. They also believe it was crowned with a bronze statue of Augustus at its summit.
While other antiquities of Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum are open to visitors, the Mausoleo has remained closed to the public and was in a state of ruin. However, restorations works began in 2008 and have taken almost thirteen years to complete, at a cost of more than $24 million (€20 million). This is because it wasn’t only the Mausoleo that needed renovation, but also the square in which it sits.
The initial part of the process included archaeological excavation and proper restoration work. The second part was focused on making the building fit for visitors. This meant including the necessary infrastructure, along with informative panels and signs.
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When Will The Tomb Open To The Public?
As the restoration work is almost complete, the Mausoleo di Augusto will open to the public on March 1, 2021. Entry to the tomb will be free from that date until April 21, 2021, although it will be necessary to book in advance. Following that date, visitors will have to purchase tickets, although the entry fee is not yet known. For convenience, booking in advance will still be a preferred option. However, residents of Rome will always be able to enter the tomb free of charge.
Interested readers can find out more information about the Mausoleo, including a detailed, interactive history of the monument through the centuries, on its official website.
With all the major renovations and restorations taking place in Rome this year, this fascinating and historic city will be even more fascinating to visit in 2021 and beyond.
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