Rome welcomes a colossal 13-meter replica of the statue commissioned by Roman Emperor Constantine after 312 AD. Using next-gen 3D technology, the reconstruction became possible from scans of the nine surviving original marble body parts. The seated emperor, adorned in a gilded tunic while holding a scepter and orb, now commands attention in a side garden of the Capitoline Museums, next to the courtyard housing the revered fragments of Constantine’s giant feet, hands, and head.
The ambitious project employed high-tech software to scan the handful of surviving fragments, breathing new life into the ancient 11-meter structure that once was located in the heart of ancient Rome. The meticulous reconstruction marks a fascinating combo of documentation, recreation, and heritage interpretation. It’s both fun and puts you in awe of the massive figure observing the passers-by, as if the past is an unexpected neighbor to modern life of a busy city.
Adam Lowe, the director of Factum Foundation, overseeing the process, expressed hope that this initiative signifies the onset of a revolutionary approach to sharing and presenting historical artifacts. Emperor Constantine’s grand comeback is a testament to the blend of ancient history and modern technology, teaming up to travel in time and bring the majestic historical figure back to the heart of the Eternal City.
