One of the landmarks in Rome is the Capitol Hill where you can spot a big equestrian statue. If you are wondering who is this important guy, here is his short history.

He is Marco Aurelio who was born in 121 AC in Rome. He was undoubtedly one of the most exceptional and brilliant emperors of ancient Rome. He was actually one of the five great “good” emperors.

His reign was characterized by the famous “PAX ROMANA” (Roman Peace), which was remembered as a period of peace and prosperity of the Roman Empire.

He was also known for his poetry and philosophy! For this reason, he earned the nickname of the “philosophical emperor”, especially thanks to his outstanding work called “Meditations”, where he manifests his personal vision of how to create a good government and a perfect administration.

Marcus Aurelius had a prosperous period until his death, occurred in the 180 AC (he died at the age of 59). His tomb was in the mausoleum of Hadrian, current Castle of the Holy Angel (Castel Sant’Angelo).

You can find the equestrian statue of Marco Aurelio (replica) in front of the City Hall of Rome. The original statue is only a few meters from the City Hall’s Square, inside the famous Museum of the Capitol (Musei Capitolini) – one of the first public museums of central Europe inaugurated in 1471.

If you would like to learn more about the history of the Roman Empire, about Emperors, history and culture of the Ancient Rome, join us for a walk through the Roman Forum with our Colosseum and Roman Forum Tour or if you are an early bird we have an option for you with Sunrise Colosseum and Roman Forum.