Rome remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, yet ancient writers were equally fascinated by its landmarks and architecture. In this interactive session, offered as part of the Being Human Festival, Dr Kathryn Tempest (University of Leicester) and Professor Gesine Manuwald (UCL) will explore some of the most famous sights in ancient Rome - including the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Circus Maximus – through the eyes of its earliest observers: the many inhabitants and visitors that flocked to the city. In so doing, we will reflect on perennial questions such as the relationship between buildings, power and literature, and think more widely about the contexts in which such superstructures - including London’s own Roman Amphitheatre - were erected!
The session will last for approximately one hour, beginning at 15.00, and will be free to join by any visitor on a drop-in basis. Seating will be provided.
Although all are welcome to join, please note that the session is targeted at older visitors and the material involved may not be accessible for children below secondary-school age.
This event is part of Being Human Festival, the UK’s national festival of the humanities, taking place 7–16 November 2024. Led by the School of Advanced Study, University of London, with generous support from Research England, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council and the British Academy. For further information please see Being Human Festival website.