Piramide di Caio Cestio
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What you need to know about the Pyramid of Caius Cestius
The Pyramid of Caius Cestius is a unique ancient monument in Rome, built as a tomb for the Roman magistrate Caius Cestius. It is located near Porta San Paolo, next to the Non-Catholic Cemetery, and is one of the city’s most unusual structures. Built between 18 and 12 B.C., it reflects the influence of Egyptian fashion that spread to Rome after Egypt’s annexation as a Roman province. The well-preserved pyramid is made of white Carrara marble and brick, and reaches a height of about 36 meters. Its location makes it easily accessible, as it is located right in front of the Piramide Metro Station (Line B). It is also close to the Aurelian Walls and the Testaccio neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, markets, and historic sites such as the Monte dei Cocci.
History and Construction: The pyramid was built for the funeral of Caius Cestius Epulon, a member of a wealthy family and part of the priestly college of the Epulonians. The structure mixes Roman architecture with Egyptian elements, representing the interest in Egyptian culture at the time.
Size and Materials: With a height of 36.4 meters and a square base of 30 meters per side, the pyramid is clad in Carrara marble. Inside, there is a small, simple burial chamber adorned with wall paintings, although the entrance is currently closed to the public.
Discovery and Rediscovery: The Pyramid was incorporated into the Aurelian Wall during the 3rd century, becoming a part of the city’s defensive fortifications. Over the centuries, its function evolved, but it remained relatively intact due to its integration into the walls. It was rediscovered in the 17th century and has since undergone restoration.
Accessibility: Today, the Pyramid of Caius Cestius is visible from the outside and occasionally open for special guided tours. It is located near the Piramide Station of Metro B and near the Roma Ostiense train station, making it easily accessible.
The Non-Catholic Cemetery: Next to the Pyramid is the famous Non-Catholic Cemetery, also known as the Cemetery of the English, which houses the graves of such illustrious figures as poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, as well as various artists, writers and diplomats. It is one of the most evocative and peaceful places in Rome.
Cultural Significance: The Pyramid of Caius Cestius is considered a symbol of the fascination that Egyptian culture exerted on Roman society, and it represents a meeting point between cultures. Its unusual presence in Rome makes it an iconic monument, and part of its appeal lies in the contrast between its Egyptian form and the surrounding Roman environment.
Events and Exhibitions: On occasion, the Pyramid hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions that delve into the history and cultural influence of ancient Egypt on Rome, making the site not only a tourist attraction but also a place of historical education.
Curiosities
Unique to Rome: Although Rome is famous for its classical architecture, the Pyramid of Cestius is the only such pyramid in the city. The presence of a pyramid in ancient Rome is unusual and reflects the fascination with Egypt after the country became a Roman province in 30 BC.
The mysterious inscription: On the pyramid is an inscription that reads, “C. Cestius L.F. Pob. Epulo Pr. Tr. Pl.” This gives the name and titles of Caius Cestius, but not much else is known about him. The inscription helped confirm that the pyramid was a personal tomb and not a public monument.
The “speed factor” in construction: The will of Caius Cestius required that the pyramid be built within 330 days of his death, or else the executors would forfeit their inheritance. This clause imposed a fast pace of construction on the artisans to meet the deadline.
Its inclusion in the Aurelian Walls: When Emperor Aurelian built the city’s defensive walls in the 3rd century AD, he decided to incorporate the Pyramid of Cestius into the fortification. This not only preserved the monument but also allowed for a reduction in construction costs.
Incredible state of preservation: The Pyramid is one of the best-preserved structures of ancient Rome, thanks to the use of quality materials and its location within the walls. Medieval graffiti, engraved in later centuries, also contribute to its historic charm.
Keats and Shelley at the Non-Catholic Cemetery: Near the Pyramid, in the Non-Catholic Cemetery, are the graves of famous English poets John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. This makes the place a pilgrimage site for lovers of literature as well as history and architecture enthusiasts.
Myth of the “Roman Pyramid”: During the Middle Ages, many believed that the pyramid was the tomb of Remus, brother of Romulus and mythical founder of Rome. This interpretation was based on popular legends and contributed to the mystery surrounding the pyramid at that time.
Symbol of contemporary art: In 2015, Roman street artist Mauro Pallotta, known as Maupal, created a temporary work depicting Pope Francis climbing the pyramid with a paintbrush, symbolizing the Pope’s desire to repaint the image of the Church. Although removed soon after, this event underscored the Pyramid’s role as a cultural icon even today.