This reconstruction is a comprehensive display at the Acropolis Museum, showing the city of Athens during its Roman period. The exhibit focuses on the many urban changes that encompassed this era of significant transformation.
Produced with a high degree of detail and accuracy, this reconstruction captures the city's structure and architecture. Constructed from robust, lightweight materials, the model spans approximately 2.5 m x 2.5 m. Its monochrome color scheme, predominantly white and grey, consciously draws attention to the city's architectural elements.
This model vividly displays the urban planning characteristic of the Roman era, featuring a grid layout and key public edifices. Notably evident are the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Roman Market, the Library of Hadrian, and new stoas. Each of these miniature structures illustrates the architectural skill of the era's Greek craftspeople under Roman influence.
The Acropolis is a key focal point in the model, towering over the city. Other represented parts include several residential areas, from wealthy homes to simpler dwellings, and streets of various widths to authentically portray the city's vibrancy. Infrastructure details such as roads, pathways, and water channels intersect across the cityscape, enhancing its realistic impression.
The ancient Agora, representing the economic nucleus of Athens, is also depicted in the model, acknowledging its vital spot in ancient Athenian societal life. The designs of the amphitheater, temples, and public baths are well-delineated, furnishing further insights into the civic customs of the period's Athenians.
The Roman influence on the city, observable in the urban plan, architecture, and public buildings, communicates the intricate narrative of cultural exchange and political supremacy that marked this historical period.
