Hadrian: Exhibition overview
This special exhibition explores the life, love and legacy
of Rome’s most enigmatic emperor, Hadrian (reigned
AD 117–138).
Ruling an empire that comprised much of Europe, northern Africa
and the Middle East, Hadrian was a capable and, at times, ruthless
military leader. He realigned borders and quashed revolt,
stabilising a territory critically overstretched by his
predecessor, Trajan.
Hadrian had a great passion for architecture and Greek culture.
His extensive building programme included the Pantheon in Rome, his
villa in Tivoli and the city of Antinoopolis, which he founded and
named after his male lover Antinous.
This unprecedented exhibition provides fresh insight into the
sharp contradictions of Hadrian’s character and challenges faced
during his reign.
Objects from 28 museums worldwide and finds from recent
excavations are shown together for the first time to reassess his
legacy, which remains strikingly relevant today.
Loan objects
The objects borrowed for the
exhibition Hadrian: Empire and
Conflict (Until 26 October 2008) will be recommended
for protection under Part 6 of the Tribunals, Courts and
Enforcement Act 2007 (protection of cultural objects on
loan).