The Fascinating Houses of Augustus and Livia on the Palatine Hill

🏛️The emperor Augustus built his own house on the Palatine Hill, where the tradition places the house of Romulus, the founder of Rome.

🎨Both the private and public sections of the houses are characterized by the prevalent use of Pompeian red in their paintings, creating a visually stunning atmosphere.

💑Livia, the wife of Augustus, had her own house adjacent to his, which was known as the House of Livia.

🏰The houses of Augustus and Livia were connected, suggesting a close relationship between the emperor and his wife.

🌟These houses can still be visited today, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of ancient Rome.

Who built the houses of Augustus and Livia?

—The emperor Augustus built his own house, and Livia, his wife, had her own adjacent house known as the House of Livia.

What is the significance of Pompeian red in the houses?

—Pompeian red is a prevalent color in the houses' paintings, creating a visually striking atmosphere and showcasing the artistic taste of the time.

Are the houses of Augustus and Livia connected?

—Yes, the houses were connected, suggesting a close relationship between Augustus and Livia.

Can visitors see the houses today?

—Yes, the houses of Augustus and Livia can still be visited today, offering visitors a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life.

What is the significance of the house of Livia?

—The house of Livia represents the living quarters of Livia, the wife of Augustus, and showcases her importance and influence in Roman society.

00:02The emperor Augustus decided to establish his own house on the top of the Palatine Hill, where he was born and where the tradition places the house of Romulus, the founder of Rome.

00:22Augustus bought houses near his birthplace to create a large housing complex, including the construction of the Temple of Apollo.

00:52The house is divided into sections, with a private section on the west side and a public section on the east side.

01:16One of the defining features of these houses is the prevalent use of Pompeian red in the paintings.

01:31The house of Livia, the wife of Augustus, is located adjacent to his house and is known for its beautiful decorations.

02:16The houses of Augustus and Livia were connected by a gangway, suggesting a close relationship between the emperor and his wife.

02:28Visitors can still see the private section of Augustus' house, including the room of the masks and the one of the pine festoons.

02:56The public wing of Augustus' house features a part of the library, the periosteum, and other decorated rooms.