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The Mausoleum of Augustus - How to visit the largest round tomb in the world

By Elyssa Bernard

February 2023, 2023

Can you imagine seeing the Mausoleum of Augustus when it was first built? How enormous, how imposing it must have been.

The tomb of Rome's first emperor, Octavian Augustus , may be considered one of the most important monuments from ancient Rome. 

Sadly, it fell to ruin and was unvisitable for years, but that has finally changed, and now, we can all visit this site.

The Mausoleum of Augustus - Facts, what's inside, how to visit it

Rome's first emperor famously said, "I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble."

Whether or not it's true, h is mark on Rome and on the Roman empire cannot be overstated. And to be able to visit his final resting place is very special.

So you may want to know just a bit about what it looked like, who was buried there, and how it went from imperial tomb to a fortress, a garden, a bull-fighting ring, a symphony hall, and finally, how it came back to us as Augustus' mausoleum.

On this page you'll find:

What is the Mausoleum of Augustus?

Mausoleum of augustus facts and brief history, what did augustus' mausoleum look like, who was buried in the mausoleum of augustus, restoration of the mausoleum of augustus, what's on the inside of augustus' mausoleum.

• Opening Hours
• How to get tickets

Rome’s first emperor, Octavian Augustus , began construction of what would become his mausoleum in 28 BCE, not long after he’d won the Battle of Actium, in which he defeated Anthony and Cleopatra.

Augustus may have been inspired by his visit to the tomb of Alexander the Great in Alexandria . We don’t know what that tomb looks like or even exactly where it is, but at the time, it must have made a strong impression on young Octavian.

Another source of inspiration for Augustus may also have been the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus , the tomb of the satrap of Caria, Maussolus (from which we get the word mausoleum.)

Built in the Campo Marzio/Campus Martius, or Field of Mars, not far from the Tiber River, Augustus’ mausoleum was meant to be a tomb for his family, close confidants, and most of the Julio-Claudio dynasty. 

The mausoleum faced directly toward the entry of the Pantheon .  Even if they were some distance apart, there was a corridor linking the two.

The mausoleum was actively used for burials until 217 CE. As other emperors, like Hadrian, made monumental tombs for their dynasties , Augustus’ tomb lost importance.

After the fall of the (Western) Roman Empire in 476 CE, Rome fairly well emptied out. 

There was a lack of clean water , and the city was pretty unliveable. There was no push to preserve any buildings or monuments, even important ones such as the Mausoleum of Augustus.

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Middle Ages

In the early Middle Ages, the mausoleum had degraded to the extent that it was just another old tomb, abandoned and overgrown with plants and trees. 

The Romans referred to the hilly tomb as the Mons Augustus . 

By the 12th century, Augustus’ tomb, like Hadrian’s tomb across the Tiber , had been converted into a fortress. For a small time it was occupied by the powerful Colonna family.

Renaissance

For the next several hundred years, different powerful Roman families took control over the monument.

In the 16th century , the  Soderini family purchased the property and created a hanging garden inside the top crater.

Also in the 16th century, Pope Leo X (Medici) did some urban planning and completely changed the layout of the area where the Mausoleum stands.

To link Santa Maria del Popolo to an area with important Medici properties (Palazzo Medici Lante, Palazzo Madama and Palazzo di Fiorenza), the Pope ordered the creation of the Via Leonina , which was carried out by Raphael and Antonio da Sangallo .

The street later became known as via di Ripetta, named for the Porta di Ripetta on the Tiber.

18th, 19th and 20th centuries

In the 18th century, the mausoleum was acquired by Portuguese Marquis Benedetto Correa de Sylva, who transformed the space into a sort of bullfighting ring.

In 1802, the mausoleum became property of the Papal States, and finally in 1873, it became Crown Property of the Kingdom of Italy.

In 1907, the inner portion of the monument was converted into a concert hall , known as the Augusteo . It seated around 3,500 people.

In 1936, fascist dictator Benito Mussolini closed the mausoleum and ordered that it be restored to an archeological site.

Mussolini in some ways saw himself as the “Augustus” of the new age, and he may have thought that the mausoleum would be a good resting place for himself. Obviously that's not how things turned out.

We don’t know exactly what the Mausoleum of Augustus looked like, but we have a pretty good idea.

This is in large part thanks to writings by Strabo of Amasya , (63/64 BCE - 24 CE), a Greek geographer of the time who saw the monument and wrote about it in his book, Geography .

Strabo travelled all across the Roman Empire, including to the British Isles, and to other far-flung locales such as Africa and Asia Minor.

His book Geography is a rich and detailed work covering socio-economics, politics, anthropology, and geography. His is the only work of its kind that sheds light on both Greek and Roman cultures and geographies during the reign of Augustus.

Strabo described the monument as looking like a hill or mound topped with and surrounded by evergreen (cypress) trees.

After his visit to Rome in 7 BCE he described a golden (bronze) statue of Augustus on top of it all.

This statue was likely the model for the marble statue also made in Augustus’ lifetime, which we can see today in the Vatican Museums .

Aside from the statue at the top, this shape sounds a lot like the tumuli used by the Etruscans who were here long before Rome was founded:

Even today we can see that the mausoleum was circular. It was composed of 3 concentric rings around an inner cylinder. The whole thing would have been about 25 meters thick!

A corridor ( dromos ) ran from the entryway into the core of the mausoleum.

The innermost cylinder had three niches where urns holding the remains of the imperial family were kept.

Inside the inner cylinder there is a small square-shaped chamber, which you can peer into when you visit. This is most likely where Augustus’ ashes were interred.

The walls of the mausoleum were made of brick, filled in with tuff stone and concrete, and then effaced with travertine, the stone we have most abundantly near Rome, and the same stone that makes up the structure of the Colosseum .

Next to the monument stood two bronze tablets inscribed with Augustus’ Res Gestae Divi Augusti , a list of the emperor’s accomplishments and victories.

You can see the text transcribed on the wall of the nearby Ara Pacis Museum .

There were two pink granite obelisks in front of the monument, on either side of the entryway.

These are 2 out of 5 ancient obelisks in Rome that were made in Rome, and did not come from Egypt (there are 8 in Rome that did come from Ancient Egypt.)

Although Augustus famously did bring back Egyptian obelisks after he conquered Egypt, these particular obelisks were made for Augustus. Both are nearly 15 meters / 50 feet tall.

Over the centuries, most of the obelisks in Rome fell into the mud, were buried, eventually found, and moved to other locations in Rome.

One now stands at back of the  Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore .

The second obelisk is now part of a fountain on the Quirinal hill in front of the Quirinal Palace, today the residence of the president of Italy. (The fountain also includes statues of Castor and Pollux, which were originally inside the Roman Forum and had nothing to do with Augustus or his mausoleum.)

The Mausoleum of Augustus is the largest circular-shaped tomb ever known. After the pyramids in Egypt, Augustus’ tomb was the largest funerary monument in the world at the time it was built.

Its diameter is about 87 meters / 285 feet. Today the ruins are about 30 meters / 98 feet high, but we don’t know the exact height of the original structure as the upper portions are long gone.

However, from the descriptions of Strabo , we can surmise that the height of the building may have reached somewhere around 45 meters / 150 feet. The external wall was and is still about 12 meters /40 feet tall. 

Although it may not seem like it, Hadrian's Mausoleum, today Castel Sant'Angelo , is in fact smaller than Augustus' Mausoleum.

Ready to plan your trip?

So who was buried in the Mausoleum of Augustus, besides the obvious, Augustus himself?

The mausoleum was intended as the burial place for Augustus’ family but also for important people close to the emperor, as well as the rest of the Julio-Claudio dynasty. The dead were usually cremated and their ashes placed in urns.

The three rectangular niches surrounding the inner cylinder housed the ashes of Augustus’ immediate family, including his nephew and son-in-law Marcellus , who died of plague at the age of 19 in 23 BCE, and who was the first to be interred in the tomb .  His epitaph proves that the monument was more or less finished by that time.

Augustus' mother Atia and sister Octavia were buried here around 11 or 10 BCE.

Other important people buried here included:

• Livia (Augustus' wife)
• Marcus Agrippa (son-in-law and right-hand man to Augustus)
• Tiberius (Livia's son by her first husband, and 2nd emperor of Rome)
• Drusus (Tiberius' only child)
• Caligula (3rd emperor of Rome)
• Claudius (4th emperor of Rome)
• Agrippina (daughter of Agrippa and Julia, and mother of Caligula) and her husband Germanicus , a prominent general in the Roman Empire
• Britannicus (Son of emperor Claudius)
• Poppea (Nero's wife)

For a short time, the Mausoleum housed the ashes of Vespasian , but his remains were later moved to the (long-gone) tomb of the Flavian family on the Quirinal hill.

Augustus’ daughter Julia , who had mortified her father with her promiscuous behaviour, was excluded from burial in the mausoleum.

The 5th and last member of the Julio-Claudio dynasty, Emperor Nero , was considered unworthy and was also not buried in the mausoleum.

Augustus was buried in his mausoleum in 14 CE.

The last Roman Emperor buried here was Nerva in 98 CE.

In 217 CE, the mausoleum was reopened to host the ashes of Giulia Domna, wife of Emperor Septimius Severus. She was the last person to be buried in the mausoleum, but soon thereafter, her sister had her ashes moved to Hadrian’s mausoleum .

There have been a few attempts to restore this fragile monument, including one started in 2014  under former Rome mayor Ignazio Marino.

The last restoration project, begun in fall 2016, has finally borne fruit.

The restoration was financed mostly by   Italian telecommunications company TIM who provided more than 6 million Euros towards the project.

An additional 4 million Euros came from the city and Italy's culture ministry.

You can read more details about the restoration on the official site here .

The Mausoleum of Augustus only recently reopened to the public.

They are working on making it into a full-blown museum but  it is still an open construction site.  S uffice to say it's literally a work in progress.

Today when you visit the mausoleum, you will be able to see much of the original inner structure along with the building materials and styles used in Ancient Rome.

Once you get into the inner cylinder, you will see some urn repositories as well as some epitaphs with the names of some of the people buried there.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

Opening hours

The Mausoleum of Augustus opening hours are:

September 1 - October 30, 2021 - Open daily from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., with last admission at 5:30 p.m.

October 31 - December 31, 2021 - Open daily from  9 a.m. - 5 p.m., with last admission at 3:30 p.m.

On December 24 and 31, the Mausoleum will close at 3 p.m.

The Mausoleum is closed on Christmas Day .

***The mausoleum is currently closed due to ongoing restorations - you can check the status here on the official website***

How to get tickets and what a visit is like

When you book this visit, you will be taken on a guided tour in Italian. At this time, the site does not have an option for a guided tour in another language.

It is not possible to visit the site on your own. (It may be possible at some point in the future when all the renovations are complete.)

For the time being, know that your visit will be guided and it will be in Italian.

Through the end of 2021, entry is free for Rome residents and Roma Pass / Turbo Pass holders (first visit).

To see a full list of all the categories eligible for free entry, visit   the official site of the Mausoleum of Augustus .

Full price tickets are 4€. There is a 1€ booking fee.

If you do not find availability on the official site, you can book through a reseller such as Tiqets .

The tour lasts around 50 minutes.

It involves some stairs and it may not be ideal for  visitors with reduced mobility .  At this time, there are not any elevators or abundant ramps making the visit very feasible for those in a wheelchair.

Bibliography

Penelope - University of Chicago

Romano Impero

Mussolini's Rome - Rebuilding the Eternal City, Borden W. Painter, Jr.

Augustus - a novel, John Williams

The Families Who Made Rome, Anthony Majanlahti

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Visiting the Mausoleum of Augustus in Rome, an Easy Guide

One of the most interesting ancient sites in Rome and very little known is the Mausoleum of Augustus, which reopened in 2021 after 14 years of renovation. Restoration works and diggings are still ongoing so more parts will be uncovered soon and I will certainly plan a new visit.

Unlike the more famous Colosseum and Roman Forum, you will barely find a line at the entrance to this important burial chamber, similar to the beautiful Baths of Caracalla , also a major site from ancient Rome but little visited by the tourist crowds.

Our simple guide to visiting the Mausoleum of Augustus will help you decide whether or not you should visit, will tell you what to expect in case you do, and also some practical information about how to reach and where to eat in the area.

IMPORTANT: The Mausoleum of Augustus is temporarily closed from June 6th to continue maintenance and restoration works. At the moment, a reopening date hasn’t been set yet.

Table of Contents

History of the Mausoleum of Augustus

A large funerary mausoleum built as the final resting place of the gens Giulia family, this ancient building in central Rome has been used as the burial chamber of the emperor Augustus and his family for around a century.

Reaching some 45 meters (roughly 148 feet), the Mausoleum of Augustus was as tall as the nearby Pincio Mount. The reason for such heigh was that it could be seen from every corner of the city and to reiterate the divine nature and status of Augustus compared to both his relatives and the rest of the population.

The urn containing his ashes was likely placed in a higher position than those of the rest of his family and, on its top, rising towards the sky was placed his shiny bronze statue.

The idea for a magnificent shrine started taking shape in Octavianus Augustus’ mind in 28 BC, and it certainly was not a coincidence that he had visited the mausoleum of Alexander the Great in Alexandria of Egypt only two years earlier.

After the battle of Actium, where the fleet of Octavianus led by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa (yes, the Agrippa of the Pantheon) finally defeated the fleets of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, the future emperor had the chance to fully focus on ruling Rome, make it a monumental capital, strengthen the empire, and sponsored new buildings and infrastructure.

The first member of the Gens Julia-Claudia dynasty buried in this mausoleum was Marcello, nephew of Augustus, designed as his successor who prematurely died near Naples, after whom they named the Theater of Marcello in Campo Marzio near the Foro Boario. The mausoleum served the purpose of a burial chamber for more than a century, but when the other emperors started to build their own tombs, this large building was left to decay.

Decay and evolution of the Mausoleum of Augustus

With the end of the Roman Empire, the Mausoleum of Augustus entered a phase of neglect and a state of abandonment. In the 12th century, the powerful Colonna family transformed it into a fortified castle while from the 13th century, it has been looted, its marble stolen to be recycled in the building of other monuments, used by different families as a castle or for different purposes, including one to host a roof garden.

This northern area of the Campo Marzio remained quite isolated from Roman life until the 16th century when Pope Leo X de’ Medici decided to develop it. This is how all around the mausoleum notable palaces and smaller buildings started to rise. The same mausoleum was readapted to different uses. It was around this time that it probably became the property of the Soderini family who lived in the area and built a beautiful roof garden embellished with statues and flowerbeds on the upper part.

Around the 18th century, Augustus Mausoleum was bought by the Portuguese-born Correa family who transformed it into a large amphitheater completing covering the burial chamber to be able to hold tournaments, shows, and fireworks much loved by the Romans.

Fast forward to the beginning of the 19th century, the complex was bought by the Apostolica Camera of the Roman Curia and assigned to the famous architect Giuseppe Valadier, the same who rearranged Piazza del Popolo , a full restoration of the mausoleum. Used as the city theater until 1888, when it was permanently closed due to structural issues, after the unification of Italy in 1870 the mausoleum was named after King Umberto I.

In 1907 the local municipality bought the Mausoleum of Augustus, the former theater being now in a complete state of decay, and turned it into a large concert hall naming it “Augusteo” in memory of its original function. Its success was so big that the auditorium became famous all over the world and thousands of concerts took place.

All this lasted until 1936 when the concert hall was permanently closed and the surrounding area of Renaissance palaces and buildings was demolished and the current Piazza Augusto Imperatore was built. This happened as part of the campaign promoted by Benito Mussolini to highlight the relics from imperial Rome. It was then that everything inside the Mausoleum of Augustus that didn’t belong to the original construction from the BCs was removed and demolished, in an effort to bring back to life the ancient burial chamber in all its glory.

Who was buried in the Mausoleum of Augustus

Which members of the Gens Julia-Claudia dynasty were buried in the Mausoleum of Augustus? There were 16 urns:

• Marcello, buried here in 23 BC, nephew of Augustus, son of Octavia, the emperor’s sister, and first husband of Giulia, Augustus’ daughter;
• Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa buried here in 12 BC, Giulia’s second husband and Augustus’ friend and general. He was also a statesman and architect who first commissioned the building of the Pantheon devoted to all gods;
• Octavia, Augustus’ sister, died in 11 BC. The monumental portico we can see in the Jewish Ghetto was named after her;
• Druso, son of Livia (Augustus’ wife), in 9 BC;
• Lucius and Caius, sons of Agrippa and Giulia;
• Augustus himself, who was the first Roman emperor, buried here in 14 AD;
• Germanico in 19 AD, the father of Caligula;
• Livia, wife of Augustus, in 29 AD;
• Agrippina, mother of Caligula, buried here in 37 AD, the first owner of the Circus of Caligula on the site of which was built the ancient necropolis underneath St. Peter’s Basilica ;
• Tiberium, the second Roman emperor, son of Livia, buried in 37 AD;
• Caligula, the third Roman emperor, buried in 41 AD;
• Claudius, fourth Roman emperor, buried here in 54 AD;
• Vespasianus, the ninth Roman emperor, buried here in 79 AD only temporarily because not a member of the Gens Julia-Claudia but the founder of the Flavia dynasty;
• Nerva in 98 AD, the twelfth Roman emperor, also from the Flavia dynasty
• Giulia Domna, wife of the 21st Roman emperor, Settimio Severo, buried here in 217 DC only temporarily.

Augustus died in Nola in his family’s house on the 19th of August 14 AD at the age of 77 years old. This is where he went after getting sick during a trip to Naples, even though according to Cassius Dio, his own wife Livia poisoned his food to ensure the throne would go to Tiberium, who was her son, but not Augustus’.

It took 14 days to bring the remains of Augustus to Rome to be cremated and buried. The funerary celebrations and rituals started on the 4th of September. After he was cremated, his wife Livia placed his ashes in the Mausoleum on the 11th of September. On the 17th, not even a week later, he was declared a god.

Who’s the big missing name? Nero, of course. Even though belonging to the Giulia-Claudia dynasty, he wasn’t buried in the Mausoleum of Augustus but in the Sepulchre of the Domitis at the foot of the Pincio Hill under the site where now is the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo. After his death, the Senate proclaimed the damnatio memoriae, a complete annulment of a citizen’s civil rights, of his actions in the collective memory and in history, as well as his rights to pass on his family name. In fact, the Giulia-Claudia dynasty ended with him.

Apart from Nero, also Giulia, the daughter of Augustus, was banned from being buried in the dynasty’s mausoleum by her own father because not deserving of it due to her inappropriate behavior.

Style and architecture of the Augustus Mausoleum

The world’s largest round-shaped tomb, the Mausoleum of Augustus has a diameter of 87 meters (285 feet). It’s no doubt that its style and decoration remind of Greek and oriental tombs, but its circular form was by all means inspired by the tombs found in the Etruscan necropolis.

In origin, the mausoleum consisted of a central cylinder coated with marble blocks inside which was the burial chamber that housed the urns with the ashes of Augustus’ relatives, while his ashes were kept in the central cylinder right below the gilded bronze statue that dominated the top of the mausoleum.

Towards the south was a staircase with a door, while the entrance of the funerary complex was decorated with plates with the inscriptions of the Res Gestae, a sort of memoir written by the same Octavianus once back from the war campaigns. From the Mausoleum of Augustus, it was even possible to see the Pantheon located south of it.

In front of the mausoleum were two obelisks that now we can see in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele near the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in the Esquilino neighborhood and on the fountain of the Dioscuri in Piazza del Quirinale.

Augustus always made it a strong point of his ruling to enrich the city with important monuments and to make them at the people’s disposal to give everyone the chance to enjoy them. His mausoleum was not an exception: its backyard was a beautiful garden left for the population to enjoy and relax.

What is to see inside the Mausoleum of Augustus

From the gate of the complex, you will walk along a round-shaped path leading to the entrance of the mausoleum. Stepping over the threshold, you will cross the dromos , a long corridor leading to the interior of the burial chamber.

The first area that you will visit inside the mausoleum is below the modern street level and corresponds to the original entrance. Right after the dromos is the large cylindrical structure surrounded by concentric, barrel-vaulted corridors. The circular plan housed three rectangular nooks where the urns of the imperial family were kept.

During your tour, led by a local expert, you will go all around the burial chamber, the central pillar and you will see where the members of the imperial family were buried. Once you are done visiting the ground floor, you will climb the stairs to see where and how it was possible for the mausoleum to become an amphitheater, a theater, and a concert hall.

You are going to see the traces of these overlapping constructions, even where the restrooms of the amphitheater were set up and where the shows used to take place.

Location of the Mausoleum of Augustus

The monumental burial chamber of emperor Augustus is located in Campo Marzio, the area devoted to Mars, the god of war. Originally, it was built outside of the city’s walls where the army could stay, because it was forbidden to enter Rome carrying weapons.

Founded as a public space, it became the private property of Pompeo first and then Mark Antony, to be acquired by Marcus Agrippa after the battle of Actium. This is when the monuments to celebrate the power and the person of Augustus were built, including the same mausoleum and the Pantheon, that Agrippa initially wanted to devote to the emperor and later named after all gods but placing a statue of himself and one of Augustus in the exterior.

After Agrippa’s death, Augustus inherited the area but instead of keeping it as private property, he made it a public space again.

Why visit the Mausoleum of Augustus

Are you still wondering whether or not the Mausoleum of Augustus is worth your time? Let me give you some help with some of the reasons why you should visit this beautiful monument of ancient Rome.

• It’s central. Situated close to the river and Rome’s Centro Storico, the mausoleum is easy to reach by walking or via public transport, and is easy to include on your bucket list.
• It’s cheap. Only 5€ the single ticket for a major historical site in Rome is quite affordable.
• It’s eternal. Just like most of the places in Rome, also the Mausoleum of Augustus has covered different functions and
• It doesn’t take long. In less than an hour, you will have visited an archaeological site linked to one of the most important leaders of imperial Rome. I think it’s worth it.

Make sure you read our complete guide to Rome public transport .

Practical information + tips to enjoy your visit

• Address: Piazza Augusto Imperatore.
• How to reach: by bus (119, 628, C3), metro (Spagna).
• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9 am-7 pm (in winter until 5 pm, in October until 6.15 pm). Monday closed.
• Entrance fee: 5€.
• Official website .
• What to wear: make sure you wear comfortable shoes, even though you are not going to walk a lot, there are stairs and some parts can be slippery or rough.
• How to book: You are not going to find a big line at the entrance of the Mausoleum of Augustus so ideally, you can buy your ticket right there. However, when I went, there was some kind of glitch and the clerk at the entrance didn’t have the tickets to sell, so I had to buy the tickets online right there really on the fly because there are scheduled entries/tours included in the ticket and I wanted to join the one starting immediately. So just to avoid glitches and disorganization, I suggest you buy your ticket online beforehand from the official website , it’s very easy, just follow the instructions.

What to do around the Mausoleum of Augustus

Being in the city center, there are plenty of things to see and do around the Mausoleum of Augustus. Here are some.

• Ara Pacis Museum. This is a monumental altar to peace dating back to imperial Rome. It’s located inside a museum that always hosts interesting temporary exhibitions.
• Piazza Navona. The famous elliptical square built on the ruins of Domitian’s Stadium, Piazza Navona is decorated with three monumental fountains including Bernini’s Four Rivers Fountain.
• Piazza di Spagna. The beautiful square and monumental Spanish Steps to reach the Trinità dei Monti church.
• Piazza del Popolo. Majestic square that from Flaminio opens up to the Tridente roads and the city center.
• Villa Borghese. You can access the beautiful Villa Borghese park from Flaminio and enjoy a walk in the nature and stunning views of the city from the Pincio Hill.
• Castel Sant’Angelo. The Hadrian Mausoleum located on the other side of the river esy to reach by crossing Ponte Sant’Angelo , Bernini’s masterpiece.
• Prati. Crossing Ponte Cavour bridge, you will easily reach Piazza Cavour and the lovely residential Prati neighborhood close to the Vatican and Borgo area.

Make sure you read my article on where to see Bernini’s work in Rome .

Where to eat near the Mausoleum of Augustus

Being the city center, there are plenty of restaurants, and this is why you should pay attention to where you eat to avoid the “tourist-menu quality”. Here are some suggestions.

• Cul de Sac. Cozy wine bar serving delicious Roman and Italian meals right behind Piazza Navona.
• Coromandel. Open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, Coromandel serves scrumptious casual meals. Hands-down one of our favorite breakfasts in Rome.
• Vega Food. Simple Indian-style vegan restaurant behind Piazza Navona.
• Ginger. In Via Borgognona off Via del Corso, Ginger serves healthy casual meals.

Don’t miss my guide to the best restaurants in Rome .

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The Mausoleum of Augustus: interesting facts + how to visit

How to visit the Mausoleum of Augustus and fun and interesting facts about this Rome landmark and archaeological site, recently opened to the public

The Mausoleum of Augustus, the tomb of Rome’s first emperor, is a significant archaeological site in Rome .

However, it is a monument few have visited. Unlike the nearby Mausoleum of Hadrian ( Castel Sant’Angelo ), Augustus’ Mausoleum only opened to the public in March 2021 and since then it has wooded its lucky visitors with its interesting story, peculiar shape and incredible history.

Getting tickets to visit the Mausoleum of Augustus is not easy: they are highly sought after and you need to book months in advance to get a spot.

If you can, however, the visit is worth it.

The Mausoleum is beautiful and its history taps into the story of Rome in Imperial times, in the Middle Ages, renaissance and even Fascist time. It truly is a symbol of Rome.

I was lucky enough to visit this wonderful Rome monument yesterday with a guide who helped me learn about it.

This is all you need to know to plan a visit.

Table of Contents

What is the Mausoleum of Augustus?

The Mausoleum of Augustus is the tomb of Emperor Augustus, who wanted it built as a final resting place for him and his family.

It dates from 28BC and it has a circular shape: its diameter measures 87 meters/ 285.433 and it is 40 meters/ 141 feet high and this makes it one of the biggest circular tombs in the world.

Its shape is somewhat reminiscent to that of Castel Sant’Angelo which was built over a century later however, it is not easy to fully appreciate its might.

At present, the Mausoleum is below street level and while you do catch a sight of its size once you walk in, from the outside there is little to entice the visitors.

Everything changes once you step inside its main gate and you see the drawings of what the place would have been like in ancient times!

The history of the building is complex and interesting: I will try and give a quick overview, hoping it will entice you to visit.

A brief history of the Mausoleum of Augustus

The Mausoleum of Augustus was built in 28BC by Octavianus, the future Augustus.

At the time, Octavianus was about to reach the apex of his career.

After successfully fighting the killers of Caesar first and then winning the civil war against Marcus Antonius, Octavianus was gathering in his hands all the powers of the magistrates of the Roman Republic and was effectively about to become the first Emperor of the Roman Empire.

This passage was sanctioned in 27BC, when he acquired the title of Augustus and in line with this ascent, he started thinking of a grave for him and his family that was suitable for such power and dynasty.

He picked a location with high symbolic power.

According to Roman mythology , Romulus, founder and first of the seven kings of Rome , became a God in the very spot and took to the sky as a Quirinus, Roman God of long standing tradition.

Placing his grave in this important religious location, Augustus effectively declared himself New Romulus, founder of a new city, that would prosper under his powers.

The mausoleum was indeed used to host the remains of the Emperor, his family and his closest descendants however, it went through a history of neglect and destruction during the Middle Ages that deprived it of all its statues and decorations.

Several drawings from the time show the urns and the basis of the original statues in use as measuring items and things didn’t improve much in terms of preservation in the Renaissance.

In the xvi century, Pope Leo X decided to embellish the area and this brought several important families to this location, who built beautiful palazzi and churches we still see today.

As part of this urban development, the mausoleum was also put to use.

First architect Soderini turned it into a garden ( Giardino delle delizie aka ‘garden of delights’) and later Marquis Correa Silva turned it into an arena. Inspired by the shape of the monument, he turned into an area for bullfights, called giostra delle bufale .

In line with this vocation for entertainment, the mausoleum was than turned into an area for fireworks and then an auditorium.

In 1937, Mussolini also set eyes on the mausoleum.

To mark the 2000 years since the birth of Augustus, he ordered the excavation of the area but with the terrible outcome: the digging was carried out without proper skill and ability to preserve and understand the monument and the lack of riches in it quickly caused disappointment.

Instead of preserving the mausoleum, the monumental Piazza Augusto Imperatore was built around it that, while interesting in its own right in terms of architecture, meant the mausoleum laid there forgotten until recent times, when it was finally preserved, made safe and open to the public.

The area is still under construction so the overall layout of the square is still in progress.

What to expect when visiting the Mausoleum of Augustus

The visit to Augustus’ Mausoleum lasts 50 min.

The guided starts leading you thought the dorms, the entrance to the building, and shows the corridors that would have hosted the funeral procession and then lets you enter the main chamber.

This first part of the visit is, in my opinion, the most interesting.

Accessing this area, it is possible to fully appreciate the size of the building and its shape, as well as see some of the original inscriptions from the toms hosted here.

This part of the visit is outdoors, while the inside of the chamber is enclosed. It is advisable to wear walking shoes or runners (at the very least: no heels) as the ground is uneven.

The second part of the visit leads you to the inside of the walls and lets you climb up to the second tier. This area is heavily restored but it is interesting to understand the uses of the mausoleum during the Renaissance and subsequent centuries.

Need to know : the visit requires you to walk up some steps, some uneven terrain and some walkaways. These can pose difficulties if you have mobility problems and make the monument not fully accessible. I recommend you speak with your guide before confirming a visit to discuss specific mobility challenges.

Why is the Mausoleum of Augustus in this location?

The Mausoleum of Augustus is in the northern part of Campo Marzio, a location chosen specifically by Augustus for its significance and symbolism.

The area was connected with the story of Romulus and his ascension to the sky as the Roman God Quirinus and was therefore suited to state a connection between Octavianus Augustus and the founder of Rome.

The mausoleum was part of a larger urban development project of the area which also saw the building of the Pantheon, built in the same era by Agrippa, Augustus’ loyal brother-in-law.

What did the Mausoleum of Augustus look like?

The Mausoleum of Augustus as we see it now doesn’t do justice to what the tomb must have looked like in origin.

We have information about its appearance by several sources of the time.

They record that the mausoleum has a circular shape, it was cladded in travertine and culminated in a suspended garden with poplar trees, laurel trees and a tall statue of Augustus itself.

The laurel trees were secred to the God Apollos and were a Rome symbol of victory.

Nowadays, we do not see much of this.

The travertine covering the walls has been fully stripped, so we see what would have been the inside of the walls, and the garden is a pale remain of a garden, it is now inaccessible and the poplars and laurels have been replaced by cypress trees.

Fun fact! The poplar tree in Latin is called ‘populus’ and, not far from here, you find Piazza del Popolo , one of the most important squares of Rome. Since the word popolo in Italian means ‘people’, it is easy to think the square is named after people but, most likely, it is actually named after poplar trees that several sources, and now the Mausoleum, record as being present in the area!

Where is Augustus Mausoleum and how to get there? Map and info

The Mauseoleum of Augustus is located in Piazza Augusto Imperatore, in Rome city center.

Buses serving the area are: 30, 492, 80, 87, 913, S06, Metro A Spagna (10 min walk)

Nearby attractions are:

• Piazza del Popolo , one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome
• Ara Pacis Augustae, another important Rome historical monument from the era of Augustus, in this case, a large altar celebrating the new era of peace inaugurated by the Princeps
• Via del Corso, one of Rome’s most important shopping streets
• Piazza di Spagna , home to the famous Spanish steps

How to visit the Mausoleum of Augustus

Visits to the mausoleum must be booked online at the address: mausoleodiaugusto.it/booking

Each visit lasts 50 minutes and will run from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9 am and 4pm.

Entrance is subject to temperature checks and wearing of face masks is currently compulsory.

Who was Augustus? Why is the Mausoleum of Augustus significant?

Augustus or Ottavianus Augustus to be precise is usually considerd the first emperor of Rome.

Chosen by Julius Caesar as his heir, he fought with and then against Mark Anthony for supreme power over Rome and gathered magistratures and powers that made him the first Princeps of Rome, effectively marking the start of the Roman imperial era.

His mausoleum is significant for the importance of the figure and also as a monument itself, due to the several uses it has served over the course of the century. 

The transformation and reuse of ancient buildings is one of the most interesting characteristics of Rome and one of the best ways to understand the uniqueness of a city inhabited consistently for over well over 2000 years.

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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• 10 November
• Things to do in Rome

Rome’s newest tourist attraction is over 2,000 years old. The Mausoleum of Augustus finally reopened to the public earlier this year after decades of neglect. A major restoration project saw the circular tomb – built by Rome’s first emperor in 28BC – undergo extensive excavations and a facelift to create a new pedestrianised area around the monument. It’s still a work in progress, but here’s what visitors can expect right now.

Entrance is below street level and visitors walk down into the site to reach the Mausoleum itself.

I remember the Mausoleum hidden away behind a fence with years of plant growth sprouting from its walls so it’s nice to now be able to see more of the structure itself. Once development of the surrounding piazza is complete, the monument looks set to become even more of a focal point of the area.

The tour began in the outer chambers of the Mausoleum, where the guide explained some of the construction techniques used.

The circular structure measured around 90 m (295 ft) in diameter and was estimated to reach as high as 45 meters (150 ft). Topped by a bronze statue of Augustus and surrounded by cypress trees, it no doubt served as an imposing reminder of the emperor’s rule. Two pink granite obelisks, which now stand at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and in front of the Quirinale Palace, only added to the grandeur.  

In the inner chambers, visitors can see what’s left of the carved stone blocks that held the ashes of the emperor and his family. As well as Augustus (aka Octavian), Octavia (Augustus’ sister), Livia (wife), Agrippa (son-in-law, close friend, and prominent architect), and many other important names from ancient Rome were also buried here.

Moving deeper inside the structure, we learnt how its function changed over the years. In the Middle Ages, it was fortified and turned into a castle. Later, it hosted bullfights, firework displays, and, after the addition of an auditorium, even classical music concerts and theatrical performances.

Mussolini attempted restoration during the Fascist era but abandoned the project after the outbreak of World War II. 

In 2007, new archaeological excavations took place but work once again seemed to stall until 2016 when it was announced telecommunications company TIM had donated €6 million towards the Mausoleum’s restoration. Part of the funds went to building this glass roof and walkway that show off the structure’s inner chambers. 

Mausoleum of Augustus Tickets

Visits to the Mausoleum of Augustus last around 50 minutes and are currently led by an Italian-speaking guide. Rome residents – and a number of other groups, including Roma Pass holders – get free entry until the end of 2021. Book tickets on the Mausoleo di Augusto website (new time slots have just opened up and the last batch sold out quickly so I’d book now).

Looking for more inspiration in the Eternal City? Check out these things to do in Rome .

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• The Mausoleum of Augustus reopened to the public
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Finally, after 14 years, the Mausoleum of Augustus has been reopened, following a long requalification and restoration project commissioned by the Superintendency of Rome in collaboration with and with the contribution of Fondazione Tim.

«The most noteworthy is what is called the Mausoleum, a great mound near the river (the Tiber) on a lofty foundation of white marble, thickly covered with ever-green trees to the very summit. Now on top is a bronze image of Augustus Caesar; beneath the mound are the tombs of himself and his kinsmen and intimates; behind the mound is a large sacred precinct with wonderful promenades; and in the centre of the Campus is the wall (this too of white marble) round his crematorium; the wall is surrounded by a circular iron fence and the space within the wall is planted with black poplars.» Strabone, Geographica, V, 3, 8

A project resulting from the synergy between the Superintendency of Rome and Fondazione Tim

Following a chief recovery and restoration project strongly supported by the Superintendency of Rome,  began in 2017, and thanks to the support of Fondazione TIM, the Mausoleum of Augustus has finally reopen to the public after 14 years, as of 2nd March 2021.

This major museum project, which also included the rearrangement of the Piazza Augusto Imperatore in front of the Mausoleum,  awaited for many years, will restore to its original splendour a symbol of the transition from the Republican to the Imperial age, the largest circular funerary monument of the ancient world.

Augustus' Empire and the splendour of the Pax Augusti

Augustan era was a period of great peace and prosperity for Rome and the Empire, so much so that in 29 BC he proclaimed the so-called Pax Romana or Pax Augusti (Roman Peace or Augustan Peace) , imposing peace on the states within the Empire, which lasted for almost two centuries. Thanks to the absence of wars, Augustus devoted himself to defending the traditions of the Roman people, protecting the cults of the religion of the Fathers, but above all he gave an enormous boost to culture, encouraging the proliferation of literary circles. The most famous of these was that of Caius Cilnius Maecenas, who was entrusted with the task of gracing the literary and poetical circles of the time, including Virgil, Horace and Ovid. It was from Maecenas, Augustus' advisor, that the noun patron (in Italian "mecenate") became the term for a protector and benefactor of poets and artists.

The Emperor was particularly engaged in activities aimed at improving the area of Campo Marzio building the Theatre of Marcellus, the Baths of Agrippa, the Pantheon, the Saepta, the Ara Pacis and, of course, his Mausoleum.

Also known as Augusteo, the funerary monument stands in the square bearing the same name (Piazza Augusto Imperatore) in Campo Marzio district.

Apart from  Augustus himself, or rather Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus, better known as Octavian Augustus, several members of the Julio-Claudian dynasty were buried in the Mausoleum.

Its construction was started in 28 BC by Augustus, the first Roman emperor from 27 BC. on his return from Alexandria after the conquest of Ptolemaic Egypt. It was during his visit to Alexandria that he approached with Alexander the Great's Hellenistic-style tomb. However, he probably found another inspiration in the magnificent Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, dedicated to Mausolus, the satrap of Caria and dating back to 350 BC. 

The structure of Mausoleum

 As mentioned above,the Mausoleum has a circular plan with a diameter of 87 metres and is the largest circular funerary monument in the world. It is a rather complex structure with superposed levels, consisting of a 12-metre-high travertine base (no longer visible) decorated with a Doric frieze on which rests the circular building of five concentric rings, connected by radial walls. The two granite obelisks, brought directly from Egypt and initially placed at the entrance, were removed and relocated to Piazza del Quirinale and Piazza dell'Esquilino, where they still stand today. Two further wall lines formed a second series of concamerations.

In front of the entrance, there were the two pillars bearing the bronze tablets on which  the Res gestae divi Augusti (the Emperor's deed) were engraved.

A long corridor led to a radial wall with two lateral passages leading to the burial chamber itself. The circular cell had three rectangular niches on its sides, where the tombs of the emperor's family were placed. A majestic cylindrical pillar, containing a square room (probably the site of Augustus' tomb), stood in the centre of the cell. Finally, on the top of this pillar, in an external position, there was the Augustus' bronze statue. Like its eastern and Etruscan counterparts, the tomb was covered with earth and evergreen trees on its top. The whole complex was surrounded by cypresses and hedges.

The Mausoleum throughout history

Augustus' nephew, Marcus Claudius Marcellus (died in 23 BC) was the first to be buried here, together with Augustus' mother, Atia Balba. Later, several members of the family were buried in the mausoleum together with other prominent personalities: from Octavian's general and friend Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, to Drusus the Elder, Lucius and Gaius Caesar. In 14 AD Augustus himself  was buried here and then Drusus Julius Caesar, Germanicus, Livia and Tiberius. It seems that Caligula laid the ashes of his mother Agrippina and his brothers Nero Caesar and Drusus Caesar here. Later, the mortal remains of another sister of him, Julia Livilla and Caligula himself were also transported here. The Emperor Nerva was the last to be buried in the mausoleum, around 98 AD. 

Important information to visit the Mausoleum

To visit the mausoleum, you are requested to  booking directly from the website www.mausoleodiaugusto.it, from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (with last admission allowed at 3:00 p.m.) in compliance with the provisions of the current Prime Minister's Decree, establishing the closing of cultural sites at weekends. Entrances are limited to a maximum of 10 people per hour. From 22nd April: 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., with last admission at 5.30pm.

The start of the museum tour will allow access to the public who will be able to visit the main building and the museum spaces in complete safety, despite the ongoing construction work.

Moreover, from April 2021, the visit to the Mausoleum will also offer digital contents, in virtual and enhanced reality, thanks to multimedia technologies. The aim is therefore to seal the collaboration between public and private, the enhancement, protection and projection into the future of the glory of the city of Rome and its immense historical, artistic and architectural heritage.

The visits, totally free for all until 21st April 2021 (day also known as the Birth of Rome), will last about 50 minutes. From 22nd April, and during all 2021, access will be free for all Rome citizens. Later, non-residents will have to pay a fee, according to the fairs for the year 2021.

For further information and group booking, when in Rome, please  contact the paying number 060608 (a tourist call centre available all days, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., in 6 Languages: Italian, English, French, Spanish, German and Japanese ) or visit the web sites www.060608.it  (available in Italian and English) and www.sovraintendenzaroma.it.

We warmly recommend you to visit the official websites as opening times and days may change due to Covid-19 emergency.

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The Mausoleum of Augustus and the Piazza Augusto Imperatore in Rome

Ruins of the Mausoleum of Augustus, 28 B.C.E. as it appeared in 2019 (photo: Jamie Heath , CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Mausoleum of Augustus in Rome, a large circular tomb is a key monument for exploring the reuse, reinterpretation, and rediscovery of antiquities over time, and it has a long, complex history that continues to resonate today.

The tomb was constructed in 28 B.C.E. on the ancient military training grounds known as the Campus Martius (Field of Mars). It was commissioned by Gaius Octavius, the thirty-year old adopted heir to Julius Caesar who would become Emperor Augustus the following year. Enormous and elaborate, the Mausoleum represented the political ambitions of Augustus  and his family, and made a public statement about his aspirations for permanent rule. The tomb’s burial chamber eventually held the ashes of Augustus, his family, and succeeding emperors of the patrician (noble) Julio-Claudian family. The maintenance of his legacy was so important to him that Augustus denied burial in the tomb to family members he considered disloyal to him—even his beloved and only natural-born child Julia.

Speculative reconstructions of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassos from Sir Banister Fletcher, A History of Architecture on the Comparative Method for Students, Craftsmen & Amateurs (London, : B. T. Batsford, 1924), page 113.

Once likely clad in travertine (a light-colored limestone), Augustus’ mausoleum consisted of five concentric walls, with rooms in the outer two corridors supporting the building’s weight, and, following earlier Hellenistic tombs such as the monumental Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (c. 350 B.C.E.), a funerary room in the center contained family urns. Augustus’ urn was probably located in the middle of this room, directly below what is thought to have been a bronze statue of him in heroic pose atop the mausoleum.

Aerial view of the mausoleum in 2019 showing the central cylinder housing Augustus’s burial chamber (photo: Sovrintendenza Capitolina ai Beni Culturali – Roma Capitale)

Archaeologists believe the mausoleum’s entry arch was approximately fifteen feet high and flanked by two bronze plaques engraved with Augustus’ Res Gestae Divi Augusti ( Deeds of the Divine Augustus )— Augustus’ first-person account of his life and accomplishments. The entryway also displayed two pink granite obelisks that Augustus brought to Rome after his victory against Roman general Marcus Antonius (better known as Mark Antony) and his lover, Egyptian queen Cleopatra VII, at the naval battle of Actium (31 B.C.E.). 

Medieval fortifications and traces of ancient travertine cladding, Mausoleum of Hadrian (Castel Sant’Angelo), Rome (photo: Steven Zucker , CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The Mausoleum through the ages

After being used as a tomb for more than a century, the mausoleum was abandoned. In the twelfth century, the noble Colonna family occupied the mausoleum and transformed it into a defensive castle. (Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum across the Tiber River would undergo a similar transformation two centuries later, becoming the Castel Sant’Angelo ). In the sixteenth century, the Florentine Soderini family purchased the mausoleum, and constructed a fashionable outdoor museum at the top with a hanging garden adorned with ancient statues.  

Garden (detail), Jan Goeree, A Reconstruction of the Mausoleum of Augustus and a View of the Ruins , before 1704, pen and black ink, brush and brown wash, red chalk, 33.4 x 20.6 cm (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Auditorium Augusteo , 1890

By the eighteenth century, the Portuguese Marquis Benedetto Correa de Sylva transformed the mausoleum’s roof into an arena for the “Game of the Buffalo” ( “Giostra della Bufala”— a spectacle resembling Spanish bullfights), and other tournaments and firework displays. Though the amphitheater subsequently changed owners, it continued as a venue for entertainment, even after passing into the hands of the Papal State (1802), the Kingdom of Italy (1873), and finally the Rome Municipality.

In 1908, restored and with a new stage on its ancient cylindrical base, the mausoleum was renamed the Auditorium Augusteo , and became one of the most renowned concert halls in Europe.

Primo colpo di piccone (First stroke of the pick), Mussolini swinging pickaxe near Mausoleum of Augustus from Giuseppe Moretti, “Lo scavo e la ricostruzione dell’Ara Pacis Augustae.” Capitolium , 1938: 479–490.

The Mausoleum in the early 20th century: fascism and a new piazza ( Piazza Augusto Imperatore )

On October 22, 1934, during the height of the authoritarian Italian fascist regime (1922–45), the Mausoleum underwent a new, long-lasting refashioning. Dictator Benito Mussolini wielded a pickaxe for the cameras while he launched the massive demolition of more than 100 late-Renaissance buildings and other structures that had accumulated around Augustus’ Mausoleum over the centuries, and cleared nearly 100,000 square feet of land. Inspired by Romanita ’, a cultish approach to Roman classical tradition, Mussolini wanted to “liberate” the ancient tomb of Augustus from later architecture and celebrate its imperial origins. Declaring (incorrectly) that countless archaeological treasures still existed inside the mausoleum, Mussolini toppled the famous Auditorium Augusteo and surrounded the mausoleum with roads and buildings, creating what is today the Piazza of Emperor Augustus (Piazza Augusto Imperatore) by 1937.

Mussolini initiates demolition to isolate the Mausoleum of Augustus, Newsreel, 1937 (Istituto Luce Cinecittà)

Mussolini’s unearthing of the Mausoleum was part of a larger government program called the Bimillenario that took place in 1938 to honor Emperor Augustus’ 2000 th birthday. The fascist government considered the Emperor Augustus a “rare genius” who embodied the ideal imperial culture of ancient Rome. By associating Mussolini with Augustus, the administration felt they could further their propagandist goal of influencing their audiences and spreading their political message of the “genius of the dictator” ( genio del duce ).  

Ara Pacis Augustae (Altar of Augustan Peace), 9 B.C.E. (photo: Steven Zucker , CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Mussolini at the inauguration of the Ara Pacis pavilion, September 23, 1938

A dictator’s reinterpretation of antiquity

During the construction of the Piazza of Emperor Augustus, fragments of the Augustan Altar of Peace ( Ara Pacis ) were unearthed from another part of the ancient Field of Mars, from beneath Palazzo Chigi (the official residence of the Italian prime minister). The Altar of Peace is an elaborate sacrificial altar built by Roman senators in 9 B.C.E. to honor Emperor Augustus’ military victories in Spain and Gaul. The altar’s decorative relief carvings included mythical founders of Rome and members of the Iulio-Claudian family. Such decoration appealed to the Fascist government as they sought to visually align their politics with a mythic, sacred past. Famous among antiquarians, pieces of the Ara Pacis had already been extracted in the 16 th century and scattered all over the world, from the Uffizi in Florence to the Louvre in Paris.

As part of the Augustan celebrations, Mussolini ordered the repatriation, or return, of the missing pieces of the Ara Paci s , its full restoration, and a new highly visible location for it adjacent to the Mausoleum of Augustus (which was not its original site). Although it proved impossible to acquire all the missing pieces, the altar was reconstructed within a concrete-and-glass enclosure designed by architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo and a bronze copy of the Res Gestae was installed on its eastern side . On September 23, 1938, the 2000 th birthday of Augustus, the Piazza of Emperor Augustus was inaugurated.

Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo, Instituto Nazionale office building also known as Palace B or Palazzo Nord, 1936–38 (photo: Bulgari Hotel Roma)

Palace B (Palazzo Nord) and buildings framing the piazza

To further define the Piazza of Emperor Augustus, Morpurgo designed three monumental buildings, fusing modern and classical styles and incorporating ancient Roman types of ornamentation, such as mosaics, relief carvings, and Latin inscriptions. 

Ferruccio Ferrazzi, The Birth of Rome , 1938, mosaic, Istituto Nazionale Fascista Previdenza ( Reed College )

A striking mosaic designed by Ferruccio Ferrazzi depicting “The Myth of Rome” appears on the façade of Morpurgo’s Palace B or Palazzo Nord, located along the north side of the mausoleum. Made with glazed ceramic tesserae (tiles) and divided into three sections, the standing youth in the center represents Rome’s Tiber River holding a boat containing Romulus and Remus, twin brothers of semi-divine parentage discovered on the river and believed to have founded Rome. A she-wolf, who nursed the twins, looks up from below. Above, Neptune, god of the sea, leads his horses. On either side,  six divinities represent work and prosperity, themes important to the Fascist party.

One of a pair of angels carrying a fasces, 1938, travertine relief, Istituto Nazionale Fascista Previdenza (photo: Martin G. Conde , FLICKR / RARA 2022 (11 June 2020, all rights reserved).

A Neo-Latin inscription below Ferrazzi’s mosaic, installed against rusticated   stones and between two winged victories holding fasces (bundles of rods with axes symbolizing power in ancient Rome and reappropriated as a Fascist party symbol), honors and links Augustus and Mussolini.

Piazza Augusto Imperatore

Mussolini kept three Renaissance and Baroque churches intact in the Piazza of Emperor Augustus. Politics likely motivated his preservation of these ecclesiastical buildings, given a treaty he signed with the Vatican in 1929 that protected the Church financially and established Catholicism as the state religion. Morpurgo designed a brick overpass connecting two of the churches on the piazza’s west side (see photo above). Additionally, the imposing Baroque apse of Basilica of SS. Ambrose and San Carlo al Corso juts into the piazza’s east side. In this way, Mussolini literally framed the ancient Mausoleum of Augustus and unified Augustan, Christian, and Fascist Rome.

Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo, Instituto Nazionale office building also known as Palace A or Palazzo Est, Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 1936–38 (photo: Lalupa , CC BY-SA 4.0)

In the same year that Mussolini celebrated the Bimillenario of Augustus, he also established the Italian Racial Laws ( Leggi Razziali ), directed mainly against Jews and immigrants from Italy’s colonies in North and East Africa. Vittorio Morpurgo, the architect of Piazza Augusto Imperatore, was Jewish on his father’s side. In order to shield himself (the laws excluded Jews from holding public office, working in higher education, or for the fascist government), he declared himself non-religious and added his Catholic mother’s surname Ballio to Morpurgo. 

Antiquity revealed in the 20 th and 21 st centuries

While Italy’s Fascist government was defeated at the end of World War II, the Piazza of Emperor Augustus and the ruins that Mussolini excavated remain, as do the Fascist-era buildings that frame them. Outlasting a fallen dictator, these important antiquities and surrounding modern buildings continue to be put to new uses and to offer new discoveries. 

Over time, popular responses to the piazza and its ruins have changed. After World War II, the Piazza of Emperor Augustus became controversial, criticized as “blatantly Fascist.” By the early twenty-first century, the antiquities revealed by Mussolini, separate from their Fascist associations, became celebrated as exquisite objects of national, archaeological, and cultural significance. Today, while the Fascist-era decorations and architecture remain protected by a government zoning plan, the archaeological monuments such as the Ara Pacis Augustae  are emphasized.

Richard Meier & Partners, Ara Pacis Augustae Museum, 1995–2006, Rome (photo: Steven Zucker CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

In 2006, American architect Richard Meier designed a new enclosure for the Ara Pacis that replaced the protective shell created by Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo. With a fountain in front of the entrance, the new building is oriented on a north-south axis and has less of an association with the adjacent piazza. The museum display, supplemented with portraits of the Julio-Claudian family and a scale model of the Ara Pacis in its ancient setting, focuses more on Augustus than Mussolini.

Although long designated as a heritage site, Augustus’ Mausoleum itself is also undergoing a re-discovery. Archaeologists, architects, and curators are working with Rome’s Superintendency of Archaeology to complete archaeological fieldwork and prepare the site for visitor access. Although a difference in height exists between the original level of the mausoleum and the surrounding area, lead architect Francesco Cellini has designed a new entrance that meets the mausoleum’s original grade level and reveals more ancient travertine pavements, including the remains of a possible paved processional route that linked the tomb with the Pantheon in the Campus Martius. In this way, he and his team hope to “reinsert the monument into a network of urban relations.”   

Reuse of Vittorio Morpurgo’s Palace B is also planned. The Italian luxury brand Bulgari, known for its glamorous jewelry, will install a high-end hotel inside. Palace B’s original ornamental features will reportedly be retained . But as with the new Ara Pacis Museum, the Bulgari Hotel emphasizes the ancient Imperial rather than the fascist past, quoting in their publicity only a portion of the façade’s Latin inscription devoted to Augustus :  “This is the place where the Emperor Augustus’ soul flies through the air.” Mussolini, originally included in the inscription, is not mentioned, reminiscent of the ancient practice of damnatio memoriae , a Latin phrase meaning “c ondemnation of memory,” when a person is excluded from official historical accounts.

Additional resources

Susan L. Fugate Brangers, “Political propaganda and archaeology: The Mausoleum of Augustus in the Fascist Era,” International Journal of Humanities and Social Science 3, no. 16 (2013): pp. 125–35.

Aristotle Kallis, “‘Framing’ Romanità: The Celebrations for the Bimillenario Augusteo and the Augusteo–Ara Pacis Project,” Journal of Contemporary History 46, no. 4 (October 2011): pp. 809–31. https://doi.org/10.1177/0022009411413407 .

Spiro Kostoff, “The Emperor and the Duce: The Planning of the Piazzale Augusto Imperatore in Rome,” in Art and Architecture in the Service of Politics, edited by Henry A. Millon and Linda Nochlin (Cambridge, MASS: MIT Press, 1978), pp. 270–325.

Jan Nelis, “Constructing Fascist Identity: Benito Mussolini and the Myth of ‘Romanità,’” The Classical World 100, no. 4 (2007): pp. 391–415.   

Anna Maria Riccomini, “A Garden of Statues and Marbles: The Soderini Collection in the Mausoleum of Augustus,” Journal of the Warburg and Courtauld Institutes 58 (1995): pp. 265–84. 

Henner von Hesberg and Silvio Panciera, “ Das Mausoleum des Augustus: Der Bau und seine Inschriften,” i n Bayerische Akademie der Wissenschaften Philosophische-Historische Klasse , Suppl. 108 (Munchen, 1994).

John Seabrook, “Roman renovation: Richard Meier tries to the conquery the Italians,” The New Yorker ( May 2, 2005): pp. 56–63.

Ann Thomas Wilkins, “Augustus, Mussolini, and the Parallel Imagery of Empire,” in Donatello Among the Blackshirts. History and Modernity in The Visual Culture of Fascist Italy , edited by Claudia Lazzaro and Roger J. Crum (Ithaca and London: Cornell University Press, 2005), pp. 53–66.

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Exploring Mausoleum of Augustus

Step back in time at the Mausoleum of Augustus in Rome's Centro Storico, an ancient tomb of Rome's first emperor.

Introduction

The Mausoleum of Augustus is one of the most impressive and historic monuments in Rome. It was built by the first Roman emperor, Augustus, as his final resting place and a symbol of his power and glory. The mausoleum has been recently restored and reopened to the public after decades of neglect and decay. In this article, you will learn about the history, architecture, and significance of this ancient wonder, and how to plan your visit to this remarkable site.

Setting Expectations: Downsides and Time Considerations

The Mausoleum of Augustus is not a typical tourist attraction. It is a solemn and sacred place that requires respect and reverence from its visitors. You will not find any flashy displays or interactive exhibits here, but rather a simple and austere structure that evokes the spirit of ancient Rome. The mausoleum is also not very large, and you can explore it in about an hour or less. However, it is worth taking your time to appreciate the details and the atmosphere of this unique monument.

Tips for your visit of the Mausoleum of Augustus

• Book your tickets online The mausoleum has a limited capacity and requires advance booking. You can reserve your tickets online through the official website or through authorized partners. The tickets are free until April 2021, but you still need to book a time slot.
• Download the app The mausoleum offers a free app that you can download on your smartphone or tablet. The app provides an audio guide, a map, and additional information about the mausoleum and its history. You can also scan QR codes inside the mausoleum to access more content.

If you want to learn more about the mausoleum and its context, you can also visit the nearby Ara Pacis Museum, which houses a monumental altar dedicated to Augustus and his achievements. The museum also has a multimedia exhibition that illustrates the life and times of the first emperor.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: The mausoleum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 7 pm. The last admission is at 5:30 pm.

How to Get There: The mausoleum is located in Piazza Augusto Imperatore, in the historic center of Rome. You can reach it by public transportation, such as bus, tram, metro, or taxi. The nearest metro station is Spagna (line A), about 15 minutes walk away.

Price: The admission fee for the mausoleum is 10 euros for adults, 5 euros for students and seniors, and free for children under 18. The ticket also includes access to the Ara Pacis Museum. As mentioned above, the tickets are free until April 2021.

Crowds: The mausoleum is not very crowded, as it has a limited capacity and requires advance booking. However, you may encounter some queues at the entrance or at the security check. It is advisable to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time slot.

Weather Considerations: The mausoleum is mostly indoors, so it is not affected by the weather conditions. However, some parts of the mausoleum are open-air, so you may want to bring an umbrella or a hat if it rains or if it is sunny.

Photography: Photography is allowed inside the mausoleum, but without flash or tripod. You can also take videos, but without sound or commentary.

Accessibility: The mausoleum is accessible for people with disabilities or reduced mobility. There are ramps, elevators, and toilets available for them. There are also wheelchairs that can be borrowed at the entrance.

Facilities: The mausoleum has a cloakroom, a bookstore, and a café. You can leave your bags, coats, and umbrellas at the cloakroom for free. You can buy souvenirs, books, and postcards at the bookstore. You can enjoy a snack or a drink at the café, which has a terrace overlooking the mausoleum.

Tours: The mausoleum does not offer guided tours, but you can use the app or the audio guide to learn more about the mausoleum and its history. You can also join a guided tour of the Ara Pacis Museum, which is included in your ticket.

Bringing Children: The mausoleum is suitable for children, as it is not very long or difficult to visit. However, it may not be very engaging or entertaining for them, as it is mostly a historical and cultural site. You may want to prepare them beforehand by telling them some stories or facts about Augustus and his mausoleum.

Bringing Pets: Pets are not allowed inside the mausoleum, except for guide dogs or service animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mausoleum of augustus.

The Mausoleum of Augustus is a large circular tomb built by the first Roman emperor Augustus in 28 BCE on the Campus Martius in Rome. It was the burial place of Augustus and his family, as well as other prominent Romans. The mausoleum was surrounded by a landscaped park and decorated with bronze statues and plaques.

How can I visit the Mausoleum of Augustus?

The Mausoleum of Augustus is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9 am to 7 pm. You need to book your ticket online in advance on the official website: https://www.mausoleodiaugusto.it/en/. The ticket costs 10 euros and includes access to the interactive history experience, the mausoleum, and the Museum of the Ara Pacis.

What can I see inside the Mausoleum of Augustus?

Inside the Mausoleum of Augustus, you can see the original structure of the tomb, which consisted of several concentric rings of earth and brick, faced with travertine on the exterior. You can also see the vaults that held up the roof and opened up the burial spaces below, where there was a chamber with three niches to hold the golden urns enshrining the ashes of the imperial family. You can also see some fragments of the bronze plaques inscribed with the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, the document describing Augustus' accomplishments and victories.

The bronze statue of Augustus

On top of the mausoleum, there used to be a huge bronze statue of Augustus, which was a symbol of his power and glory. The statue was probably removed or destroyed in late antiquity, but you can see a replica of it at the Museum of the Ara Pacis, which is located next to the mausoleum. The museum also displays other artifacts related to Augustus and his era, such as sculptures, coins, and reliefs.

The twin pink obelisks

Flanking the arched entryway of the mausoleum, there were two pink granite obelisks that were brought from Egypt by Augustus. They were part of his display of conquest and exoticism. The obelisks were removed in the 16th century and relocated to different places in Rome. One now stands at the Piazza dell'Esquilino, near the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and the other at the Quirinal fountain. You can visit them and admire their ancient inscriptions and hieroglyphs.

The landscaped parkland

Surrounding the mausoleum was a beautiful parkland that offered a place of retreat and relaxation at the heart of Rome's busy Campus Martius. The park was planted with cypresses, laurels, roses, and other flowers, and featured fountains, statues, and benches. Some parts of the park have been restored and are open to visitors. You can walk around them and enjoy their natural beauty and tranquility.

The Mons Augustus

Over time, the mausoleum became largely buried under earth and overgrown with trees, to the point where it was referred to as the Mons Augustus (the Hill of Augustus). A legend of the time said that Augustus ordered that a basketful of earth from every province of the empire was to be thrown upon his tomb, so that he could rest on the soil of the whole world over which he ruled. The hill became a popular spot for picnics, games, and festivals, until it was rediscovered and excavated in modern times. You can see some traces of its former appearance on some old maps and paintings.

Additional tips or recommendations for visitors: - Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as the mausoleum involves some walking and climbing stairs. - Bring a bottle of water and a hat, as the mausoleum can get hot and sunny in the summer. - Respect the rules and regulations of the site, such as not touching the walls, not taking photos with flash, and not littering. - Enjoy your visit and learn more about the fascinating history and culture of ancient Rome!

Lesser known stories and Interesting Facts

The mausoleum was once a fortress.

During the Middle Ages, the Mausoleum of Augustus was transformed into a fortified castle by the Colonna family, who used it as a stronghold against their rivals, the Orsini. The castle was later destroyed by the troops of Charles V in 1527, during the Sack of Rome.

The Mausoleum hosted a circus

In the 18th century, the Mausoleum was used as a venue for bullfights, fireworks, and acrobatic shows. It was also the site of a circus, where exotic animals such as lions, elephants, and camels were displayed. The circus was run by the entrepreneur Giovanni Battista Locatelli, who also built a theater and a coffee house inside the Mausoleum.

The Mausoleum inspired Mussolini

In the 1930s, the Fascist dictator Benito Mussolini ordered the restoration of the Mausoleum of Augustus as part of his propaganda campaign to link his regime to the glory of ancient Rome. He also planned to build a new imperial forum around the Mausoleum, but his project was interrupted by World War II.

The Mausoleum contains a time capsule

In 2017, during the latest restoration works, archaeologists discovered a metal box hidden inside a cavity in the wall of the Mausoleum. The box contained coins, medals, newspapers, and documents dating back to 1938-1939, when Mussolini's restoration was carried out. The box was probably placed there by the workers as a souvenir of their work.

The Mausoleum is an interactive museum

Since March 2021, the Mausoleum of Augustus is open to the public as an interactive museum, where visitors can learn about the history and architecture of the monument through multimedia devices and augmented reality. The museum also offers a virtual reconstruction of the original appearance of the Mausoleum and its surroundings.

Historical Background

The Mausoleum of Augustus was built by the first Roman emperor Augustus in 28 BCE, after his victory at the Battle of Actium over Mark Antony and Cleopatra. It was intended to be his final resting place and that of his family and successors. The Mausoleum was located on the Campus Martius, a large open area that Augustus transformed into a monumental complex dedicated to his political and cultural achievements.

The Mausoleum was a circular structure made of concrete and faced with travertine marble. It had a diameter of 90 meters and a height of 42 meters. It consisted of several concentric rings that created different levels of burial chambers. The entrance was flanked by two pink granite obelisks brought from Egypt. Above the door, there were bronze plaques with the Res Gestae Divi Augusti, Augustus's autobiography that listed his deeds and reforms.

The interior of the Mausoleum was decorated with statues, paintings, and mosaics. In the center, there was a vaulted chamber with three niches that contained golden urns with the ashes of Augustus and his relatives. Among them were his wife Livia, his sister Octavia, his nephew Marcellus, his grandsons Gaius and Lucius Caesar, his adopted sons Tiberius and Drusus, and his great-grandson Germanicus.

The top of the Mausoleum was crowned by a conical roof covered with earth and planted with cypress trees. On the summit, there was a huge bronze statue of Augustus in military attire. The roof also served as an observation platform that offered a panoramic view of Rome.

The Mausoleum of Augustus was not only a tomb but also a symbol of imperial power and continuity. It represented Augustus's claim to be the founder of a new era of peace and prosperity for Rome and its empire. It also expressed his desire to be remembered as a great leader and benefactor of his people.

Nearby Restaurants

• Gusto A trendy restaurant and wine bar that offers a variety of dishes, from pizza and pasta to salads and burgers. The restaurant also has a bookstore, a cheese shop, and a cooking school.
• Ad Hoc A cozy and elegant restaurant that specializes in Roman cuisine and seafood. The restaurant also has a wine cellar with over 800 labels and a sommelier service.
• Caffè Propaganda A chic and modern bistro that serves French-inspired cuisine and cocktails. The bistro also has a pastry shop, a tea room, and a chocolate factory.

Nearby Attractions

• Ara Pacis Museum A museum that houses the Ara Pacis, an ancient altar dedicated to the goddess of peace by Augustus in 9 BCE. The museum also displays other artworks and exhibits related to the Augustan age.
• Piazza del Popolo A large and elegant square that features an Egyptian obelisk, three churches, and two fountains. The square also hosts concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year.
• Spanish Steps A famous staircase that connects the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. The staircase is decorated with flowers in spring and summer and offers a scenic view of the city.

The Mausoleum of Augustus is a remarkable monument that reflects the life and legacy of Rome's first emperor. It is also a fascinating place to explore the history, culture, and art of ancient and modern Rome. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in the Eternal City, don't miss the chance to visit the Mausoleum of Augustus.

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• PLAN YOUR VISIT
• Top attractions

Mausoleum of Augustus Rome: Significance, History Facts & Tours

• In PLAN YOUR VISIT Top attractions

This beautifully restored (2019) tomb was commissioned by the Emperor of Rome at the time – Augustus – in 29BC. A sprawling site and imposing building located on the banks of the Tiber, the Mausoleum of Augustus is a little-known treasure in Rome, and it is well worth a visit!

Especially now that it has reopened after a down time of 14 years, during which it was carefully reconstructed (more about that later).

• 1 Who was Augustus?
• 2 History Of The Mausoleum Of Augustus
• 3 What Was the Mausoleum of Augustus Used for?
• 4 Mausoleum Of Augustus Inscription And Materials
• 5 Mausoleum of Augustus Restoration
• 6 Mausoleum Of Augustus Inside Look – What To Expect?
• 7 Urban Legends and Facts about Mausoleum of Augustus
• 8 Who Is Buried In The Mausoleum Of Augustus Except for Augustus
• 9 Nearby Places of Interest
• 10 Mausoleum Of Augustus Tours
• 11 Get Mausoleum Of Augustus Tickets
• 12 Opening Hours
• 13 Where Is Mausoleum of Augustus & How to Get There
• 14 Frequently Asked Questions
• 15 Conclusion

Who was Augustus?

The Augustus tomb was the brainchild of Augustus. Rome’s first emperor, he was often referred to as Octavian, and reigned from 27BC until he died in 14AD.

Known for his leadership at the time as well as for a period of stability in the overall empire, he claimed a strong lineage. His great uncle was Julius Caeser and he luckily inherited all of Caeser’s assets after his assassination in 44BC.

His accomplishments were far greater than the construction of the Augustus Mausoleum – he consolidated power, expanded the empire, and created a bunch of friendly allies around the region to ensure its stability.

Within Rome, he created structures – including a police and fire brigade – and rebuilt many crumbling structures.

History Of The Mausoleum Of Augustus

Wondering who built the Mausoleum of Augustus? Well, no less than the Emperor himself!

After victory in the battle of Actium, Augustus commissioned the circular structure in 31 BC. The facade was covered in impressive travertine, giving the structure a grand appearance.

So if you are asking what the Mausoleum of Augustus would look like back then you can imagine a huge round structure, topped with cypress trees and guarded by a massive bronze statue of the emperor!

And when was the Mausoleum of Augustus built? It is believed to have been completed in 28BC.

What Was the Mausoleum of Augustus Used for?

Augustus commissioned the tomb as a final resting place for himself and his family, however, there is a long list of other famous Romans buried in the mausoleum – even before he himself died.

These include:

• Gaius Caesar and Lucius Caesar (his grandsons)
• and Octavia Minor (his sister)

Mausoleum Of Augustus Inscription And Materials

The circular walls were constructed using earth and brick, formed into circular external walls. These were then covered on the external facade with travertine.

The diameter is 87 meters in width, and the structure stands 40 meters high. On two huge pillars flanking the sides there were bronze inscriptions, detailing the life and works of Augustus. It is known as the Res Gestae Divi Augusti.

Mausoleum of Augustus Restoration

The restoration was reconstructed and reopened to the public in 2021 after a closure of 14 years!

Costing $12.2M and funded largely by an Italian telecoms company TIM, as well as donations from the government. The Augustus museum Rome had become unsafe – trees were growing through cracks in the walls and it had become largely abandoned.

The works, which took 5 years to complete, restored the mausoleum to its former glory.

Mausoleum Of Augustus Inside Look – What To Expect?

The large bronze statue is still intact and on display as you enter the structure, as well as two obelisks.

You can also visit here the tomb of Augustus – the Augustus Caesar grave – plus many other burial sites of his other family members in the mausoleum of Augustus interior.

Look out for the inscriptions telling the story of Augustus accomplishments during his life!

Urban Legends and Facts about Mausoleum of Augustus

• The mausoleum was one of Augustus’ first projects since consolidating power. And whilst he did bring relative peace to the region, he was in fact just another dictator.
• The mausoleum of Augustus used to house two giant obelisks. They are now on display in the Piazza del Quirinale and Piazza dell Esquilino.
• It is thought that the selection of the location of the site was not by chance. Roman mythology states that at this very spot, Romulus (founder of Rome) turned into a deity. So, it seems Augustus had similar ambitions.

Who Is Buried In The Mausoleum Of Augustus Except for Augustus

Lots of Augustus’ family is buried in the tomb. This includes Livia – his wife as well as his sister. Marcus Claudius Marcellus and Agrippina the Elder also rest in the mausoleum, as well as Tiberius.

Nearby Places of Interest

The tomb is located in prime sightseeing areas!

The Piazza de Spagna is a stone's throw away, and boasts beautiful Spanish steps. This means that you are in a prime location for another great and lesser known Rome attraction – shopping on the Via del Corso!

Once you are done, head to the Piazza del Popolo for some people watching and a spot of lunch!

Mausoleum Of Augustus Tours

If you fancy taking a tour of the Mausoleum it might be worth your while – recent feedback from visitors who have checked out the attraction since it opened has indicated that the official tours are currently all in Italian.

Hiring an experienced tour guide in your language will mean you don’t miss a thing! Check out this tour which incorporates all things Augustan into the itinerary!

And – if you really hate tours but are interested to learn more, or if you want to check the Mausoleum out before you commit – then visit the official website for a virtual tour!

Get Mausoleum Of Augustus Tickets

You can book tickets in advance for the Augustan tomb at the official website. Tickets cost just €5 + €1 reservation fee.

You need an hour to see the site. If you have a private guide, you are allowed to explore in a 30 minute dedicated slot.

Opening Hours

The Mausoleum seems to have a pretty complex set of opening hours on the website that vary by season and day.

Generally, it opens at 9 and closes around 5 or 6pm, with last access granted an hour before closing. Check out the updated opening times before you plan your trip right here.

Where Is Mausoleum of Augustus & How to Get There

Take a look at this mausoleum of Augustus map to show you how central this attraction is!

The Mausoleum of Augustus location makes it a perfect stop off when hitting off the other sites in the area. The best way to get to the tomb is to take the metro to Spagna station, then it’s a 10-minute walk.

• Location : Piazza Augusto Imperatore, Rome

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Mausoleum of Augustus open?

After a whopping 14 years of closure the Mausoleum reopened in 2021 to the public after extensive restoration. Works are ongoing.

Where is Augustus buried?

Augustus, and many of his family members, is buried in the Mausoleum of Augustus.

Is the Mausoleum of Augustus the largest mausoleum in the world?

Yes - the tomb is thought to be the largest round tomb in the world!

Why was the Mausoleum of Augustus built?

Augustus had the mausoleum built as a place to bury himself and his family at later dates and to celebrate his victories in war.

If you have more than 3 days in Rome you certainly should check out the Mausoleum of Augustus.

If it is your first time however you might want to focus on the main attractions in Rome.

Fanny, a skilled writer with a keen interest in art and culture, has been enchanted by the Borghese Gallery’s exquisite collection and its history. As a significant contributor to the Visit Borghese Gallery blog, she artfully shares insights and stories, bringing the gallery’s masterpieces and the lush gardens to life for readers around the world.

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Take a window into ancient Rome’s past at the Mausoleum of Augustus

Things to do in Rome Rome Attractions Landmarks in Rome Mausoleum of Augustus

If you are a history buff looking for interesting landmarks in Rome, the Mausoleum of Augustus is a must-visit site. This ancient monument is an iconic reminder of Rome's rich cultural heritage and its diverse past dating back to 753 BC. The Mausoleum is the final resting place of Augustus, the first Roman Emperor. The site was also used to bury other members of the imperial family, including Augustus' wife, Livia, and his grandson, Marcus Claudius Marcellus.

Mausoleum of Augustus in a Nutshell

Handy information.

The Tomb The Ruins Urns Museum

Things to know

Built in: 28 BCE Location: Rome Restored by: Benito Mussolini Architectural style: Ancient Roman

Opening Hours And Address

The site is temporarily closed. For latest updates check official website Address: Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Get Directions

Why Is Mausoleum of Augustus Worth Visiting?

• Historical Significance: The mausoleum is a great historical site that provides insights into Augustus, who ruled from 31 BC – 14 AD. Learn about his legacy and influence on the Roman Empire.
• Stunning Architecture: Admire the grandeur of the circular-shaped Mausoleum, standing at nearly 90 feet tall, with immaculate marble columns and intricate carvings.
• Beautiful gardens: The site comprises of beautiful gardens that offer tranquil surroundings for visitors.
• Awe-inspiring View: The Mausoleum is located at the top of a hill, offering an awe-inspiring view of the city of Rome and its surroundings.
• Renovation and Reopening: Be one of the first to visit the newly restored Mausoleum, which was closed for over a decade, and experience the attraction's brand new interactive tour, including a virtual guide.

Mausoleum of Augustus Tickets

You can choose from a variety of tickets while visiting Mausoleum of Augustus including a Guided Tour and an Audio Guided tour.

The Mausoleum of Augustus History

The Mausoleum of Augustus was built to serve as a tomb for Augustus and his family. The construction of the mausoleum was completed in 28 BC and it featured a giant statue of Augustus on top of the building. The Mausoleum of Augustus represents an important period in the Roman Empire's history. It was a time of great prosperity and peace, known as the Pax Romana. This period saw significant achievements in engineering, art, literature, philosophy, and science.

The Mausoleum also has many interesting features that are worth exploring. For instance, it was decorated with beautiful sculptures and reliefs that depict Augustus's military victories and achievements. Despite its grandeur, the Mausoleum of Augustus fell into disrepair over time. However, it has recently undergone a large restoration project, breathing new life into this historic landmark. .

The Mausoleum of Augustus Architecture

The Mausoleum of Augustus, located in the heart of Rome, is a majestic architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. The design and architecture of the Mausoleum is characterized by its cylindrical form, which dominates the surrounding landscape. The exterior of the Mausoleum is decorated with elements of ancient Roman art and religious symbolism, including friezes and sculptures depicting scenes from Roman history and mythology. The interior of the Mausoleum is equally stunning with vaulted ceilings and intricate frescoes that depict various aspects of Roman life and customs.

The Mausoleum's dome was once covered in bronze, but it was destroyed over time. The structure has undergone various renovations over the years, but it remains an impressive example of Roman architecture.

Highlights of Mausoleum of Augustus

1 res gestae.

The Res Gestae is an inscription by Augustus detailing his achievements and accomplishments during his reign. This inscription is located on the pillars just near the entrance.

2 Main chamber

The main chamber of the Mausoleum of Augustus is where the Emperor Augustus and his family were buried. The chamber features intricate carvings and frescoes depicting various events from Roman mythology and history.

The walls of the Mausoleum are adorned with beautiful sculptures and reliefs that tell the story of Augustus and his family’s legacy.

You can also explore the on-site museum. The museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to Augustus and his family. Some of the highlights include ancient coins, sculptures, and other artifacts dating back to the Roman Empire.

5 The Surrounding Piazza

The surrounding Piazza is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the Mausoleum and the city. The beautifully manicured gardens and fountains add to the tranquility of the area.

6 Urn repositories

The urn repositories are located in the circular wall and hold the ashes of other members of the imperial family, including Livia and Marcus Claudius Marcellus. You can see the inscriptions on the urns and learn about the history of each individual.

Best Time to Visit Mausoleum of Augustus

The best time to visit the Mausoleum of Augustus in Rome is during the fall and spring months when the weather is mild. Prices also tend to be lower during these seasons and the crowds are much smaller than in the summer months. We recommend visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Additionally, visiting during the weekdays rather than the weekends may result in a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.

Additionally you can learn more about the Best Time to Visit Rome .

Mausoleum of Augustus Opening Hours

• Currently closed for restoration. Check official website website for reopening dates.

Getting There

• By Metro: The closest metro station to the Mausoleum of Augustus is Spagna (Line A). From Spagna, it's just a 10-minute walk to the site.
• By Bus: Line 85 and 70 are the buses that stop near the Mausoleum of Augustus,

Regardless of which transportation option you choose, be sure to plan your route ahead of time using the city's public transportation maps and schedules. And don't forget to validate your ticket before boarding!

Insider Tips to Visiting Mausoleum of Augustus

• Plan to visit during the day, as the site is closed at night.
• Book your tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in long queues.
• Consider taking a guided tour to get more in-depth knowledge and information about the history and architecture of the Mausoleum.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there is a lot of walking involved.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen during the summer months, as it can get hot and sunny.
• Check the official website for any updates on opening hours or closures.
• Take the time to explore the surrounding gardens, which offer stunning views of the Tiber River.
• Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Ara Pacis Museum or Castel Sant'Angelo.
• Avoid visiting on weekends or holidays, as the site can get crowded.

Restaurants Nearby

Osteria del Pegno is a renowned restaurant located in the heart of Rome, Italy. Situated in the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood, this establishment has garnered a reputation for its exceptional cuisine, warm ambiance, and dedication to preserving traditional Roman flavors. Distance from Mausoleum of Augustus: 1 km

The Cul de Sac restaurant in Rome is a beloved establishment that has become an iconic destination for food and wine lovers. Located in the historic center of the city, just a stone's throw away from Piazza Navona, Cul de Sac is renowned for its extensive wine list, delectable cuisine, and charming atmosphere. Distance from Mausoleum of Augustus: 2.3 km

A traditional Italian restaurant known for its seafood specialties and homemade tiramisu. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Distance from Mausoleum of Augustus: 1.4 km

Taverna Ripetta is a delightful restaurant nestled in the heart of Rome, Italy. Located near the famous Piazza del Popolo, this charming eatery has established itself as a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Distance from Mausoleum of Augustus: 290 m

Other Attractions around Mausoleum of Augustus

This majestic structure, originally built as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian, now stands as a fortress overlooking the Tiber River. With its cylindrical shape and imposing statues, Castel Sant'Angelo offers a glimpse into ancient Roman architecture and history.

Piazza del Popolo, located in the heart of Rome, is a bustling square known for its grandeur and historical significance. Surrounded by impressive architecture, including the iconic twin churches of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto, the square offers a vibrant atmosphere and a perfect starting point for exploring the city.

The Pantheon is a magnificent ancient temple that showcases the brilliance of Roman engineering and architecture. With its iconic domed roof and massive Corinthian columns, the Pantheon is a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

The Colosseum, an iconic symbol of ancient Rome, is a colossal amphitheater that evokes the grandeur and power of the Roman Empire. Built in the 1st century AD, this architectural marvel hosted thrilling gladiatorial contests, animal hunts, and spectacles for the Roman citizens.

This magnificent Baroque masterpiece, completed in 1762, enchants visitors with its grandeur and intricate sculptures. The fountain's central figure of Neptune, surrounded by tritons and mythical sea creatures, commands attention as water cascades down the ornate structure.

Hotels around Mausoleum of Augustus

Luxury stays.

• The First Roma Dolce
• Grand Hotel Plaza
• Elizabeth Unique Hotel

Economical Stays

• Residenza Canova Tadolini
• Hotel Anahi
• Hotel Del Corso : Via Del Corso 79

Budget Stays

• My Secret Condotti
• Orange Suites B&B
• Piazza di Spagna

What is the Mausoleum of Augustus? 

A massive tomb built by the first Roman emperor in 28 BC.

What can I see inside the Mausoleum? 

Currently closed for restoration, but panoramic views of the city can be enjoyed from the rooftop terrace.

How much does it cost to visit the Mausoleum? 

It's free to visit during restoration.

Is the Mausoleum of Augustus worth visiting?

Definitely! It's a unique historical landmark with breathtaking architecture and impressive history.

How long does it take to visit the Mausoleum? 

Including time for taking photos and admiring the views, about 30-45 minutes.

When will the Mausoleum be reopened? 

The expected reopening date is in 2021, but please check for updates.

Can I bring my kids with me to the Mausoleum?

Yes, it's a kid-friendly attraction, but make sure they don't climb on any structures.

Is there any nearby attractions I can visit after the Mausoleum? 

Yes! You can visit the nearby Ara Pacis Museum, Augustus' Forum, or stroll along the famous Via del Corso.

Rohit Jadhav

More of a mountain person than beach, more of a culture-trip person than just visits! Having travelled to most of North India when I was a kid to backpacking across South India in my adulthood, I learnt that you often find your 'self' in the most unpredicted of places. And that is my inspiration to travel. To connect with nature, people and cultures. Books are my companion and I find my soul in trees. Music, yoga and literature is my passion. I often dream of attending a Peruvian wedding or living in a quaint Hungarian town for a while. When I am not writing, I would love to go hiking or explore the hidden valleys of Himalayas. Until then, some running and some literature is enough for me to get by!

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

Mausoleum of Augustus

Rome, Lazio, Italy

The Mausoleum of Augustus was the tomb of Rome’s first emperor.

Lucy Davidson

14 jul 2021, @lucejuiceluce.

About Mausoleum of Augustus

Located in the Campus Martius in Rome, Italy, The Mausoleum of Augustus (Mausoleo di Augusto) was constructed in approximately 28 BC as the tomb of the first emperor of Rome. Located near the banks of the river Tiber, the mausoleum has been restored and reopened to the public as of March 2021, after 14 years of closure.

History of Mausoleum of Augustus

When it was created, the Mausoleum of Augustus was a large circular building intended to be the final resting place of both Augustus and his family. The building was originally clad in marble and likely topped by an enormous bronze statue of Augustus .

Other than the emperor himself, those buried at the Mausoleum of Augustus included his wife Livia , Germanicus , Marcus Claudius Marcellus , Britannicus , Nero Claudius Drusus, Agrippina the Elder , and Tiberius .

Augustus (63BC – 14AD) was the great nephew of Julius Caesar and the named successor in his will. When Julius Caesar was assassinated in 43 BC, Augustus became the ruler of Rome, a position he solidified in the Battle of Actium in which he defeated Anthony and Cleopatra . Augustus transformed Rome from a republic into what became effectively a dictatorship as well as implementing many social, administrative, and military reforms.

Mausoleum of Augustus Today

Today, the Mausoleum of Augustus is among the most famous surviving ancient mausoleums. After 14 years of restoration work, the mausoleum has reopened, and features a multi-media exhibition that projects images of modern and ancient Rome onto the interior walls of the structure.

Some of its relics, notably two obelisks which once decorated it, now stand in Piazza del Quirinale and Piazza dell Esquillino .

Until the end of 2021, entry to the Mausoleum is free for residents of Rome, and tours which last 50 minutes can be booked through the website. There is also a virtual interactive tour, available in both English and Italian.

Getting to Mausoleum of Augustus 

From the centre of Rome, the Mausoleum is reachable in around 10 minutes by car via the Viale del Muro Torto road. The closest Metro station is Spagna, after which the site is an 8 minute walk. By foot, the site is reachable in around 25-30 minutes via Via Barberini.

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In Rome, you will soon be able to visit the mausoleum of the Emperor Augustus

A little-known treasure is found in the Italian capital: the Mausoleum of Augustus, one of the city’s oldest monuments. Built before the Colosseum, this iconic ancient Roman building will soon be the beating heart of an entirely renovated district. An introduction.

In 27 B.C.E., the first Roman emperor, Augustus, decided to have a huge mausoleum built at the heart of the ancient city between the Via di Ripetta and the Via del Corso, along the banks of the Tiber . The symbol of his glory and grandeur, the sepulchre is built on the model of Etruscan tombs and was completed in just four years. Augustus died in 14 B.C.E., probably poisoned by his wife Livia, and his ashes were transferred inside the mausoleum. For almost 200 years, the edifice would serve as a burial chamber before being transformed over the centuries…

A monument with many vocations

In the Middle Ages, the Mausoleum of Augustus was initially converted into a fortress. Then in 1241, Pope Gregory IX dismantled the citadel and stripped it of its travertine. During the Renaissance, the site was turned into a magnificent Italian-style garden dotted with Greek and Roman statues and bas-reliefs, before becoming a bullring during the Grand Tour period . Another change occurred at the end of the 17th century: the sepulchre was used this time as a concert hall where operettas and light comic operas were performed. Closed in 1880, it would not open again until 1907, when it was purchased by the city of Rome , which would use it as an amphitheatre.

A few years later, when Mussolini came to power, he had a sole obsession: restoring Rome to its imperial grandeur . From 1934 onwards, he developed the Piazza Augusto Imperatore and destroyed the many buildings surrounding the mausoleum in the process. The operation was a disaster and condemned the edifice to remain in a state of ruin for many years.

An example of Roman ingenuity

In 2007, renovations began to bring the monument back to life , respecting the original work and later interventions. During this restoration, the refurbishment of the outer wall revealed the construction technique used by the Romans. To raise the walls, the Romans did not use scaffolding but built an intermediate floor 70 cm above the ground. It was from this new stage that they could then raise the walls by an additional 70 cm. The traces of this work in layers are still clearly visible on the outer wall. The 87 m-diameter mausoleum is therefore a perfect example of Roman know-how and a symbol of the Empire’s power.

A new cultural district at the heart of Rome

• adresse : Piazza Augusto Imperatore
• ville : Rome
• pays : Italy
• aeroport plus proche : Rome Fiumicino

Hidden by fences since 2007, Augustus’ funerary monument is set to open to the public in the course of summer 2023 and will become the first Roman museum dedicated to the emperor. The museum visit will highlight the history of the building itself and its different architectural modifications. The rooms will hold numerous remains, archaeological discoveries from the latest digs (carried out just before the restoration) and other pieces collected in the region. A series of augmented and virtual reality digital content will also make it possible to see the mausoleum as it was in ancient Rome , but also at the different stages of its long existence.

Over and above the monument itself, the city of Rome wants to create a real urban ecosystem around the building. The museum will therefore be surrounded by a pedestrian area and green spaces landscaped in Piazza Augusto Imperatore . A promenade is also planned to allow visitors to admire the burial tomb from the outside. However, the most extraordinary view of the Mausoleum of Augustus promises to be the one from the terrace of the future Bvlgari Hotel, a luxury hotel constructed opposite the edifice in buildings dating from the 1930s! Make a beeline for it this summer!

Piazza Augusto Imperatore 00186 Roma +39 06 06 08 www.mausoleodiaugusto.it

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About the Mausoleum of Augustus

• At August 03, 2022
• By Belinda McLeod
• In Notable Mausoleums & Cemeteries

For centuries, artists have been creating things of great beauty to celebrate a person’s or family’s contributions to society. Some of those things have become an important part of our cultural heritage, such as the Mausoleum of Augustus. Let’s learn about the Mausoleum of Augustus – a monument to Emperor Augustus – as you consider how you wish to be remembered.

The Significance of the Augustus Mausoleum in Ancient Rome

The Mausoleum of Augustus (Mausoleo di Augusto) was built as a statement piece by the thirty-year-old adopted heir to Julius Caesar. Gaius Octavius, who would become Emperor Augustus, built the enormous and elaborate tomb on the Campus Martius, or ancient military training grounds in Rome, Italy. However, the building was more than a place to hold ashes. It represented the political ambitions of Augustus and his family and made a public statement about his aspirations for a permanent rule.

The mausoleum was built in 28 BC on the Piazza Augusto Imperatore, near the corner with Via di Ripetta as it runs along the Tiber River. It was one of the first projects the great leader commissioned.

The circular building consisted of several concentric walls of earth and brick, faced with travertine on the exterior walls. The structure was topped with a cone-shaped roof and a huge bronze statue of the emperor.

The structure was grand. Two pink granite obelisks flanked the mausoleum’s arched entryway. (One still stands on the north-west side of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the other at the horse fountain in Piazza del Quirinale.) Inside the interior walls, a chamber with three niches held the gold urns of the Imperial Family. Nearby bronze plaques were placed at the site after Augustus’ death and told the story of his accomplishments and victories.

The Mausoleum Throughout the Ages

During the Middle Ages, this mausoleum was made into a fortress like other monuments from modern and Ancient Rome. It was later made into a hanging garden. During the 18th century, it was the site of a bull-fighting arena and circus acts before being turned into a concert hall.

Dictator Benito Mussolini, seeing himself as a “reborn Augustus,” ordered a full restoration of this key monument in the 1930s. The restoration work of the Mausoleum of Augustus featured in Mussolini’s ambitious reordering of the city of Rome, which strove to connect the aspirations of the fascist era with the former glories of the Roman Empire.

Visit the Mausoleum of Augustus

Students studying the history of Gaius Octavius and later emperors would undoubtedly gain a lot from  visiting the mausoleum . The grounds cover an area equivalent to a few city blocks, with the mausoleum nestled between the church of San Carlo al Corso and the Ara Pacis Museum.

As you travel the world, you may find yourself visiting many tombs of great people and their families. How will you tell subsequent generations about your family’s history?

As you consider your legacy, consider these  frequently asked questions  about building modern mausoleums. Forever Legacy is the premier builder of private family mausoleums in North America. We would love to answer your questions in person –  request a consultation today. 

Belinda McLeod has a degree in Secondary Education, specializing in English and Journalism. She began her career as a freelance writer in 2018 since a flexible schedule would allow her to help care for an aging parent. Since then, Belinda has specialized in writing for the funeral industry. Belinda has written for Cake, a funeral-planning  website , nursing homes, mausoleum companies, cremation companies, and funeral homes.

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Archaeologists May Have Found the Villa Where the Roman Emperor Augustus Died

Excavations north of Mount Vesuvius revealed Roman ruins buried by the eruption in 79 C.E.

Sonja Anderson

Daily Correspondent

After decades of excavations in Italy, archaeologists have discovered a villa that could have belonged to Augustus , the first emperor of Rome.

Since 2002, researchers from the University of Tokyo have been exploring Somma Vesuviana , an archaeological site north of Mount Vesuvius , the volcano that extinguished the ancient city of Pompeii in 79 C.E. Recently, these excavations revealed a structure destroyed by the same eruption.

Researchers think this site could be Augustus’ lost villa. According to the team, Roman sources say Augustus died in a villa north of the mountain in 14 C.E., but the building’s location has never been verified.

“There is a description that [the villa] was consecrated … but its existence has not been identified to this day,” says Mariko Muramatsu , leader of the university’s Somma Vesuviana excavation project, in a translated  statement . “In recent years, our excavations have uncovered parts of buildings that were buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 C.E. This means that for the first time in this area, a building contemporary with the villa of Emperor Augustus has been found with scientific support.”

The ruins in question actually include two separate villas: one buried in the 79 C.E. eruption and another built on top of it later, reports  All That’s Interesting ’s Amber Breese. Until recently, researchers had only been aware of the newer structure.

In the older villa, archaeologists identified four rooms containing portions of wall, roof tiles and other ruins. In one chamber, researchers discovered 16  amphorae —tall ancient Roman jars—which were used to transport and store wine. In another, they found “large amounts of charcoal and ash” from a fire they believe was used to heat water for a private bathhouse, “indicating that the villa belonged to a person of great wealth and influence,” per All That’s Interesting .

In the mid-second century, people began constructing new buildings atop the site of the buried villa, using its footprint as a guide. The new construction featured a grand hall filled with brick arches, marble columns and marble statues. Around the fourth century, the site transformed again, becoming a large-scale wine production site. This villa was preserved by another eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 472.

Historians previously thought the damage from Vesuvius’ 79 C.E. eruption at this site was “minor compared to the southeast of the mountain,” but the older villa’s ruins suggest “there was also a destructive impact in this area,” reports  La Brújula Verde ’s Guillermo Carvajal. Researchers think the structure collapsed due to pyroclastic flows—dense, fast masses of ash and gas expelled by the volcano.

The researchers theorize that Augustus could have once occupied the older villa. Born  Gaius Octavius Thurinus , the young man was granted the name Augustus—the “exalted one”—by the Roman Senate in 27 B.C.E. While Augustus didn’t use the title of “emperor” in his lifetime, he was a pivotal figure in Roman history who more than doubled the empire’s size during his 40-year reign.

Researchers from the Somma Vesuviana excavation project hope to expand the scale of their digs. As Muramatsu says in the statement, further exploration could reveal “another Pompeii,” helping historians “trace the achievements of Emperor Augustus and the beginnings of the Roman Empire.”

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Sonja Anderson is a writer and reporter based in New York City.

The restoration project

CONSERVATIVE RESTORATION

In order to breathe new life into the Mausoleum, it was decided to undertake a conservation restoration seeking to restore the ancient building and ensure its use through a series of interventions that not only respect the original structure but also all the subsequent works.

Of the more than 13,000 square metres of walls that can be seen today, nearly half date back to the original construction from the time of Augustus, and almost the same amount consists instead of walls dating back to the restoration work of the 1930s. There are also remains of walls built in medieval and Renaissance times. These walls added in later periods will not be removed, but will in turn be restored unless they are at severe risk of collapse. In this latter case, the walls will be examined metre per metre to decide whether to demolish them down as far as the original construction, or restore them and make them safe.

The restoration project involves two distinct phases: the consolidation of existing structures to make them safe and accessible, and the enhancement that will allow a new use for the structure.

FIRST PHASE: CONSOLIDATION

The conservative restoration needed to consolidate the structure and so avoid any new damage or collapse of what currently exists began on 31 October, 2016. The first task was to move 153 important archaeological remains that are ready to return to the Mausoleum once the work is completed. After this, scaffolding was erected around half the circumference of the Mausoleum. This made it possible to eliminate the vegetation that had taken root on the walls, before cleaning, filling and protecting them. The top of the walls was covered with a layer of protective material to prevent new water infiltration within the masonry and a protection against rain was built. The restoration project also foresees the roofing of some rooms and the waterproofing of the spaces, the fixing of the floors and consolidation of the four sets of stairs.

CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES OF THE ROMANS

The consolidation work of the outer wall has made visible the construction technique used to build the Mausoleum. The Romans did not put up scaffolding but used a different strategy. They would build concentric walls, rising approximately 70 centimetres at a time, and then fill the space between them with earth. This level then became the new floor from which they could then add another 70 centimetres to the walls, and these levels are very clearly on the outer wall today: every 70 centimetres, it is possible to see a slender, lighter line as fine working material would be trodden into the level being used as a floor, contrasting with the darker earth used as infill. Even when all the earth was removed, this thin line remained visible, enabling archaeologists to work out the construction techniques employed, and can still be admired today around the outer circumference.

THE CONCAMERATIONS (VAULTED CELLS)

As can be seen in the illustration, behind the outer wall of the Mausoleum, a ring of twelve semicircular rooms was constructed, together with another, inner, ring divided into twelve trapezoidal rooms. These rooms are called concamerations, a terms used to describe a series of similar communicating cells. The semicircular walls of the outer concamerations and the radial ones of the trapezoidal concamerations are critical for holding up the weight of the entire building. To make the Mausoleum even more solid, the concamerations in both rings were completely filled with earth. With the passing of the centuries, after the marble covering the monument had been removed and collapsing masonry had further reduced its weight, the concamerations were excavated and used as rooms, cellars, storage rooms, stables for cattle, theatre changing rooms, lavatories and emergency exits. The present restoration again renders them usable, thanks to the consolidation of the walls and vaults roofing them.

SECOND PHASE: ENHANCEMENT

The restoration is necessary for the maintenance of the building and to avoid new deterioration, while the work of enhancement that will follow will instead give Augustus’s funeral monument a new life: the Mausoleum will be open to the public and will become the museum of itself.

The enhancement work is being directed by the Sovrintendenza Capitolina and is funded entirely by Fondazione TIM. It will enable the realisation of a museum itinerary to include full disabled access to ensure that the museum will be accessible to all, even though it is built within an ancient structure.

The museum itinerary will be laid out in the trapezoidal concamerations, which will be visited in a clockwise direction, with the succession of rooms reflecting the succession of significant moments in the life of the Mausoleum.

The walls will not be plastered but will present their antique appearance, as revealed during the conservative restoration. The rooms will house the remains of the various phases of the monument’s life, the archaeological finds from the latest excavations undertaken just before the restoration, and other finds from the area, conserved by the Sovrintendenza di Roma and never before displayed to the public.

THE NEW ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES

The thorough archaeological excavation carried out before the renovation has shown how the Mausoleum’s internal structure was probably more complex than had been assumed until now and has shown how it must have appeared in antiquity. Today, it has the shape of a cone and all the reconstructions hypothesised so far have imagined it like this in classical times too. The latest studies, however, show how this form is merely the result of the collapse of the roof and outermost walls. We now think the Mausoleum must have been similar to Hadrian’s Mausoleum, transformed into a fortress in the Middle Ages and now known to us as Castel Sant’Angelo. Augustus’s Mausoleum was far larger than Hadrian’s and was probably an imposing white marble cylinder, elegantly decorated and topped by a colossal bronze statue of Augustus, the marble copy of which is almost certainly the statue known as “Augustus of Prima Porta”. The enhancement of the monument will also involve new archaeological excavations to study the ancient parts that have collapsed and never been removed; it is hoped that an analysis of these will definitively make clear the monument’s original structure.

THE SURROUNDING PIAZZA

Today, the Mausoleum is set back from the piazza, standing at a lower level than the road, and is covered with plants. This makes it virtually invisible.

The Mausoleum must return to being part of the city’s life. For this reason, in 2006 the administration of Roma Capitale launched an international competition for the enhancement not only of the monument, but of the whole piazza, in order to make this site a public space once more that brings together the living city and its archaeological heritage.

The monument will be surrounded by a pedestrian zone, adorned with green spaces and connected to the other streets with broad stairs that will create a direct link between the level of today’s city and that of the imperial city. An external walkway will be built to enable the public to admire the monument even from the outside.

The piazza and the monument will once again be what they have always represented: the meeting point between past and present that still makes Rome one of the most beautiful cities in the world.