Apollo Mars forumán

Absztrakt

The study analyzes the iconography of the forum of Augustus from new aspects. It can be stated, that Apollo stands right on the middle axis, which separates the different functions of the forum (cult, public administration) and its propagan-distic message (war, peace, a new golden age). Apollo raises Augustus among the divine descendants and the new founders of the state. The second method is the re-interpretation of decorative elements and iconographic motifs. The botanical elements refer to the presence of many gods. The multilayered floral ornament and stylized motifs created the “numen mixtum” phenomenon. It can be connected not with the syncretism of Augustan ideology, but rather with the “concordia deorum.” It can be concluded, that the prevailing notions are the foundation of a new city and the golden age in the iconography of the temple dedicated to Mars Ultor. Mars is represented not as a god of war, but rather as Mars Pater, and the most important symbols of the whole architectural complex can be connected to the figure of Apollo.