Augusteum, so-called Basilica, Roman civil basilica in Ercolano, Italy.
The Augusteum is a Roman civil basilica in Ercolano featuring a large marble-paved courtyard surrounded by colonnaded porticoes. The space is defined by a central apse, while decorative fourth-style wall paintings adorn the interior surfaces.
The basilica was built in the Julio-Claudian period during the first century and served as an important public building for the Roman community. The earthquake in 62 caused significant damage, and extensive restoration work was later carried out under Emperor Vespasian.
The building housed numerous statues of imperial family members, showing how important it was to display the power of rulers in public spaces. These works served to emphasize the connection between the city and Rome.
A visit requires time to thoroughly explore the different areas and view the preserved paintings carefully. It is advisable to check local information about current accessibility, as archaeological sites can change regarding their opening status.
Archaeological excavations from the 18th century revealed numerous bronze and marble statues through a tunnel system beneath the building. These works are now displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Naples and offer insight into the artistic standards of the period.
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