Horologium Augusti

Definition

The Horologium Augusti, or the 'Sundial of Augustus', was a monumental sundial located in the Campus Martius in ancient Rome. This impressive structure featured a large obelisk as its gnomon, casting a shadow onto a vast horizontal surface that marked the time of day. It symbolized Augustus' power and his connection to celestial phenomena, representing both a practical tool for timekeeping and a significant monument reflecting his achievements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Horologium Augusti was constructed around 10 BCE and included an Egyptian obelisk that stood approximately 21.5 meters tall.
2. The sundial not only served to tell time but also aligned with significant dates in the Roman calendar, marking important festivals and events.
3. It was located near the Ara Pacis, connecting Augustus' rule to themes of peace and prosperity.
4. The obelisk used in the horologium was originally brought to Rome from Heliopolis, Egypt, emphasizing Augustus' role in promoting Egyptian culture in Rome.
5. In the Middle Ages, parts of the horologium were repurposed, and today, only the obelisk remains as a testament to its grandeur.

Review Questions

• How did the Horologium Augusti reflect Augustus' political power and influence over Roman society?
  • The Horologium Augusti represented Augustus' political power by showcasing his ability to blend practical governance with grand monumental architecture. The use of a massive obelisk as its gnomon not only served a functional purpose in timekeeping but also emphasized his authority through its connection to Egyptian culture, which was seen as sophisticated and powerful. The sundial's alignment with important Roman dates further reinforced Augustus' influence over public life and demonstrated his role as a leader who integrated celestial phenomena into civic life.
• Discuss the significance of the materials used in constructing the Horologium Augusti and their cultural implications.
  • The Horologium Augusti was constructed using an Egyptian obelisk and local Roman materials, highlighting the cultural exchange between Egypt and Rome during Augustus' reign. The choice of an obelisk, a symbol of divine power in Egyptian culture, showcased Augustus' aspirations to connect his rule with that of ancient civilizations. This blending of materials not only reflected the artistic achievements of Rome but also represented Augustus’ political strategy to legitimize his power by associating himself with prestigious cultural symbols from conquered territories.
• Evaluate how the Horologium Augusti fits into the broader context of architectural innovation during the Augustan period.
  • The Horologium Augusti exemplifies architectural innovation during the Augustan period by integrating functionality with monumental art. This era saw a surge in public works that combined engineering prowess with aesthetic appeal, reflecting Augustus' vision for transforming Rome into a grand capital. The sundial's design incorporated advanced knowledge of astronomy and geometry while also serving as a public symbol of time management and civic pride. Such projects not only elevated Augustus' status but also set new standards for urban planning and monumental architecture that would influence future generations.

Related terms

Obelisk: A tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument with a pyramidion on top, often erected as a commemorative symbol in ancient cultures.

Campus Martius:

A large public area in ancient Rome, originally used for military training, which later became a significant cultural and political space.

Gnomon: The part of a sundial that casts the shadow, allowing the measurement of time based on the position of the sun.