di Tom Padula
A very important event is coming up in Melbourne next month. I have been watching numerous TV series on Ancient Rome and have been writing about the history of Rome over the ages. It’s such an advanced civilization that it naturally invites comparisons with our contemporary world. I invite you, reader, to consider attending this significant event in our city.
In April 2026, the Melbourne Museum will host one of its most important international exhibitions in recent years: “ROME: Empire, Power, People.” Opening on 1 April 2026 and running through October, this major event offers visitors a rare and immersive exploration of the Roman Empire and its enduring influence on the modern world.
The exhibition brings together more than 150–180 authentic artefacts from leading Italian institutions, including statues, mosaics, frescoes, jewellery, and everyday objects dating from the 1st to 3rd centuries CE—the height of Imperial Rome. These objects are being displayed in Melbourne for the first time, making the exhibition a unique cultural event for Australia.
“ROME: Empire, Power, People” is designed not only to showcase artefacts but also to tell the story of a civilization that shaped law, politics, engineering, architecture, and culture across Europe and beyond. Visitors will journey from the dramatic fall of Julius Caesar to the rise of powerful emperors and the vast expansion of Roman authority. The exhibition highlights the ambition and complexity of Roman society, including its political systems, religious beliefs, and social hierarchies.
A key feature is its focus on everyday life in ancient Rome. Beyond emperors and armies, the exhibition explores the experiences of ordinary citizens—traders, slaves, soldiers, and families—bringing a human dimension to history. Visitors can examine how Romans lived, worked, worshipped, and entertained themselves, from bustling marketplaces to the spectacle of gladiatorial games.
The exhibition also uses modern technology to enhance the experience. Immersive scenography and multimedia displays recreate the sights and sounds of ancient Rome, allowing visitors to step into the world of the empire. This approach makes the exhibition accessible and engaging for a wide audience, including students, families, and history enthusiasts.
In addition to the main exhibition, a range of special programs will be offered throughout April and beyond. These include guided tours that provide expert insights into the artefacts and themes, as well as exclusive preview events for members. Educational workshops and school programs will further explore the formation, expansion, and legacy of the Roman Empire, linking ancient history to contemporary society.
The significance of this exhibition lies in its exploration of Rome’s lasting influence. Many aspects of modern life—from legal systems and governance to language, urban planning, and architecture—can be traced back to Roman innovations. By examining these connections, the exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on how ancient Rome continues to shape the present day.
Overall, “ROME: Empire, Power, People” at Melbourne Museum in April 2026 is more than a historical display; it is a comprehensive cultural experience. It combines rare artefacts, compelling storytelling, and immersive design to bring one of history’s greatest civilizations to life.
For Melbourne audiences, it represents a unique opportunity to engage directly with the legacy of the Roman Empire and understand its profound and lasting impact on the world.
