Hadrian: Exhibition overview
This special exhibition will explore 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 will provide 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 will be shown together for the first time to reassess
his legacy, which remains strikingly relevant today.
UK Partnership Tour
In lead up to Hadrian: Empire and Conflict, the Museum
is sending one of its star objects, a rare bronze head of Hadrian,
to Hadrian’s Wall from 8 February until 8 June 2008.
Loan objects
The objects borrowed for the
exhibition Hadrian: Empire and Conflict (24 July
– 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).