DISPUTE OVER TEMPLE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22831, 16 March 1936, Page 14

DISPUTE OVER TEMPLE

Controversy rages round the newlyreconstructed Temple of Venus and of Roma, in Rome. Archaeologists and historians are divided into two camps. One alleges that the main part of the building as outlined by reconstructed columns is out of proportion, A minority as vehemently protests that it is perfectly correct. The Temple of Venus and Roma was originally planned by the Emperor Trajan and built in the early years of the Christian era. It was the last pagan temple to be in use ns such in Rome, and remained open until the end of the fourth century. Most of its magnificence then went to adorn patrician palaces and Renaissance churches. For instance, it is known that the bronze tiles were stripped from the roof for use in St. Peter's. It has only been possible to restore the niche which was used for the goddess Roma. The statue of Venus stood in a niche which is still incorporated in the cloisters of the adjacent convent of St. Francesca Romaua. The. niche of the goddess Roma faces the Colosseum. Seven porphyry columns have been put in place. The grey granite columns which form the portico have also been pieced together and set up. As the reconstruction leaves a great deal to the imagination there is a plan to fill the niche with a modern reproduction of Roma’s gigantic statue, of which piece' have been found on rhe spot.