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19 April 2005: Study in Archives on the theme of the myth of Hercules – Scientific Lyceum “Righi” Roma, class 1F

After visiting the Archives on 5th April, some students from class 1F expressed a desire to return to study further on the theme of the myths of Hercules, which had been proposed by the teacher as a thread for the visits to the museum of Palazzo Altemps.

In agreement with the teacher, Prof. Carlesimo, it was decided to introduce the students to documents on the find of the chapel of Hercules Cubans in 1889 near Porta Portese in the area which was occupied by the Horti Caesaris, the great gardens of Caesar. In antiquity these gardens  extended to the far banks of the Tiber.

The students then studied the Carta Archeologica di Roma– archaeological map of Rome made during urban re-planning of the area – for the area of the find. The students were particularly interested in consulting the map of finds and asked the meaning of the symbols used to represent their various types. They then went on to compile their own key or legend, in order to have a clear general picture of the area of the dig.

We then examined the original maps containing the reports of objects found in the area of the Trastevere railway at the foot of Gianicolo hill. These documents are conserved in Tutelage practices for the historic centre and suburbio.

These maps were compiled in 1889 by Engineer Domenico Marchetti – who received objects as representative of General Direction of Museums and excavations of Antiquity – and by the engineer of the Ministry of Public works.

Reading the documents led to explanation of the procedures adopted in the last century during major urban projects and in excavations of antiquities. The role of “Agents” of antiquity was described. These “agents” intervened for restoration of archaeological heritage for the General Direction for Antiquities and Fine Arts in the Ministry of Public Education.

Talking of historical and institutional themes had been a theme on the previous meetings and the students now understood clearly, asked questions and were involved in the activities.

The last part of the meeting was dedicated to describing the chapel carved in the volcanic tufa, and to viewing the two tufa statues of Hercules found in the area. The statue of Hercules Cubans  - a statue of Hercules reclining – was less well known to the students and created great interest. The presence of this cult statue had led to identifying the chapel, which had been located here by Latin writers.

Among other objects that came to light in the 1889 excavations were seven marble busts of charioteers. Athletes probably placed these as offerings to the cult of Hercules. The busts and the statue of the divinity are preserved in the Museo Nazionale Romano.

Bibliography:

E. M. Steinby (editor), Lexicon Topographicum Urbis Romae, Roma 1996, vol. III, pp. 12-13 s. v.Hercules Cubans, sacellum (L. Nista)