Internationally renowned Roman Empire exhibition lands in Fremantle

Last Updated: 11 Dec 2019
Thomas Tang
An exhibition that transports visitors back more than 2,000 years to one of the most technologically significant times in the history of the Western world is now open at the WA Maritime Museum.

From December 7, travel back in time as the Museum hosts Ancient Rome: Epic innovators and engineers. The exhibition showcases the military genius of the Roman Army and the innovation that went into constructing the ancient city of Rome. Dating back to the time of Julius Caesar and the victory of his army over Gaul in 52BC, it traverses the rise and fall of the Roman Empire from 27BC – AD476.

Curated by Artisans of Florence, who have over 100 years of experience in crafting historical exhibitions, the exhibition is world class, receiving the Italian President’s award for cultural innovation in 2010.

With over two dozen reconstructed models, including a model of a catapult used to hurl 50kg boulders up to 500m, guests will get a hands-on experience learning and aweing at Roman military ingenuity. Perfect for the curious minds of kids!

For seasoned history buffs, the exhibition will also focus on how the Romans mastered civil engineering, perfecting roads and aqueducts that cemented their legacy as world leaders in Europe. Visitors can bear witness to lost and dated technological advancements that really put into perspective the significance of Ancient Rome. Examples on display include an odometer for measuring distances, a groma for drawing straight lines on the ground and a noria, used for lifting water.

Originally constructed out of wood and other organic perishable materials, most Roman technology has – unsurprisingly – not survived the 2,000 years that have passed since the Empire’s heyday. In order to reconstruct the instruments on display, curator Thomas Rizzo said that the team of expert craftsman drew upon archaeological expertise and the work of renowned 1st Century BC Marcus Vitruvius Pollio.

This is the closest you’ll get to Ancient Rome – don’t miss out on the chance to explore one of the world’s most fascinating ancient civilisations before the exhibitions leaves on April 26, 2020.

Tickets to Ancient Rome: Epic innovators and engineers can be purchased here.

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