The use of Architectureby Octavian Augustus in construction of the Principate, from 31 to 27 BC

Abstract

In the period that includes the beginning of the Principate, Rome was the scene of an extraordinary development and sophistication with regard to architecture. This architectural monumentality that settled in Rome, had in Octavius Augustus its greater idealizer, so that this became a marked characteristic of its government. We deal in this work about the way in which Augustus, between the years 31 BC and 27 BC, used architecture, constructions and reconstructions of public buildings to promote the aggrandizement of Vrbs and perpetuate his name and his achievements in the memory of future generations. We devoted more attention to the year 29 BC, when Octavius Augustus returned to Rome and after realizing his triumph he consecrated some buildings in the Roman Forum, promoting a real topographic change in this space. We also focus on the year 28 BC, when Octavius undertakes a vast restoration of more than 80 temples, as well as consecrating a new temple dedicated to Apollo in the Palatine, demonstrating his commitment to his fellow citizens and to the gods, emphasizing even more the pietas with which he governed his actions.