Local before arrival
An almost square structure of Carrara marble, richly decorated with reliefs, encloses the actual Ara Pacis, or Altar to Peace, erected to celebrate the long period of peace established by Emperor Augustus. Since 2006, the altar has been integrated into a museum designed by architect Richard Meier to protect it from smog and the elements. After hours, the Ara Pacis can be admired through the glass walls.
