This conference cycle, "Living in Rome X. What the Pieces Tell Us," explores the history and culture of Augusta Emerita through representative pieces from the Museo Nacional de Arte Romano's collection. Held on Thursdays in January, February, and March, the talks delve into various aspects of Roman society, administration, religion, and daily life, often complementing explanations within the museum's exhibition halls.
The "Living in Rome X. What the Pieces Tell Us" conference cycle offers a detailed look into the history and culture of the Roman colony of Augusta Emerita, utilizing key pieces from the Museo Nacional de Arte Romano's collection. Each lecture is designed to approach specific historical and cultural aspects, such as administration, technology, religious thought, and leisure activities, by examining representative artifacts. The format combines theoretical insights with direct engagement with the pieces, often leading to guided explanations within the museum's exhibition rooms. Specialists from various institutions, including the Consorcio de la Ciudad Monumental, the University of Extremadura, and the museum itself, lead these sessions.
The cycle's schedule includes discussions on diverse topics, from specific mosaics like the "Aurigas" and funerary inscriptions to medical equipment, imperial ideology reflected in sculptures, and the narratives conveyed by coins. The program also touches upon the representation of women and deities, linking them to the local context of Emerita. Although some sessions were postponed, the cycle aims to provide visitors with a rich and grounded understanding of Roman life, guided by expert interpretations of tangible historical evidence.