Peace comes to the Roman Empire

Emperor Antoninus Pius

Photo by Michael Kooiman on Flickr

Antoninus Pius was the fourth of the “Five Good Emperors” of Rome. He came to power in 138 AD after the death of Emperor Hadrian.

Antoninus wasn’t like most Roman leaders. He wasn’t out to expand the empire. Instead, Antoninus focused on consolidating the empire, strengthening its borders and improving the lives of every day citizens.

Because of this, his reign was called a time of “Roman Peace.”

The empire prospered without a constant threat of conflict. He improved the legal system and he worked to improve the status of women and children in the Roman society.

Antoninus Pius would pass away in 161 AD at the age of 75 but he would leave a legacy that we can still see today.

Want to learn more about Antonius Pius, check out my post on Substack.

See the life of Antoninus Pius up close by visiting the following destinations:

• Antonine Wall in Scotland See the remains of the wall along with the Roman forts

• Temple of Antoninus and Faustina in Rome Originally built to honor Antoninus’ wife, Faustine the Elder, it was rededicated to both Antoninus and Faustina after his death

• Hadrian’s Mausoleum (Castel Sant’Angelo) in Rome Antonius was buried here following his death.

• Museo Nazionale Romano in Rome See artifacts from the time of Antoninus Pius

• Uffizi Gallery in Florence

• Lanuvium in Lanuvio Italy The birthplace of Antoninus Pius

• Capitoline Museums in Rome

Learn more about the Roman Empire and the best places for your family to visit.