The major exhibition “Rome: Empire, Power, People” opened in Melbourne on March 30, 2026. The exhibition, organized by the Melbourne Museum in collaboration with the National Roman Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Florence, with organizational support from Contemporanea Progetti, represents an unprecedented event in the Australian cultural landscape. For the first time, over 160 original artifacts and archaeological masterpieces leave Italy to tell the Australian public the extraordinary story of the Roman Empire. Beyond emperors and conquests, “Rome: Empire, Power, People” offers an immersive look at daily life in ancient Rome, giving voice to the men and women who built a civilization destined to profoundly impact the history of the West.<\/p>\n
At the heart of the project is the synergy between Italian and Australian museum institutions, strengthened by the support of the Consulate General of Italy and the Italian Cultural Institute in Melbourne, which have played a key role in forging connections between local cultural institutions and Melbourne’s vibrant Italian cultural and business community. The contribution of private sponsors has also been crucial, particularly the Pellicano family and the Brunetti Classico brand, which will open a caf\u00e9 inside the museum for the occasion, further enriching the visitor experience. Supporters of the project also include other prominent Italian-Australian business families, including Crema, Scalzo, and Lanteri.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis exhibition represents much more than a cultural event: it is a concrete symbol of the profound dialogue between Italy and Australia,\u201d said the Italian Ambassador to Australia, Nicola Lener, in his opening remarks, also stating that \u201cthrough these extraordinary artifacts, we share not only our history, but also a living heritage that continues to inspire the contemporary world.\u201d<\/p>\n
Victoria’s Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks, also spoke, confirming the initiative’s high institutional and international profile. “Victoria is proud to host an exhibition of such international significance,” he said, noting that “events like this strengthen Melbourne as a global cultural capital and offer the public unique experiences that combine education, creativity, and participation.”<\/p>\n
The inaugural event was also attended, via a video message, by the directors of the National Roman Museum and the Archaeological Museum of Florence, key partners in the project, who emphasized the scientific and cultural value of the collaboration.<\/p>\n
More than an exhibition, it is a cultural bridge between Italy and Australia: the exhibition will be accompanied by a rich program of events dedicated to tourism, education, and cultural exchange, further strengthening an already strong dialogue between the two countries.<\/p>\n
“Rome: Empire, Power, People” will be open to the public at the Melbourne Museum from April 1 until the end of October 2026.<\/p>\n
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