The major exhibition “Rome: Empire, Power, People” has opened in Melbourne. The exhibition is organized by the Melbourne Museum in collaboration with the National Roman Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Florence, with organizational support from Contemporanea Progetti and the support of the Consulate General of Italy and the Italian Cultural Institute in Melbourne.
It is an unprecedented event on the Australian cultural scene. For the first time, over 160 original artifacts and archaeological masterpieces leave Italy to tell the Australian public the extraordinary story of the Roman Empire. Over and above emperors and conquests, “Rome: Empire, Power, People” offers an immersive look at daily life in ancient Rome, giving voice to the men and women who built a civilization destined to have a deep impact on the history of the West.
“This exhibition is much more than a cultural event: it is a tangible symbol of the deep dialogue between Italy and Australia,” said the Italian Ambassador to Australia, Nicola Lener, in his opening remarks. He also stated that “through these extraordinary artifacts, we share not only our history, but also a living heritage that continues to inspire the contemporary world.”
Victoria’s Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks, also spoke, confirming the initiative’s high institutional and international profile. “Victoria is proud to host an exhibition of such international significance,” he said, noting that “events like this strengthen Melbourne as a global cultural capital and offer the public unique experiences that combine education, creativity, and participation.”
The Directors of the National Roman Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Florence, key partners in the project, also participated in the opening event via a video message, emphasizing the scientific and cultural value of the collaboration.
