The Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, was commissioned by the Roman Senate in 13 BC to honor Emperor Augustus after his victorious campaigns in Hispania and Gaul. Completed and inaugurated in 9 BC, it was initially located in the Campus Martius area of Rome. The monument is adorned with intricate reliefs depicting scenes of Roman ceremonial processions, the imperial family, and various mythological figures. These decorations illustrate both the public and religious significance of the altar, symbolizing the peace and prosperity brought by Augustus’s reign.

Over the centuries, the monument became buried due to the frequent flooding of the Tiber River, and parts of it were unearthed only during the 16th century. In 1938, as part of a celebration of the 2,000th anniversary of Augustus's birth, the altar was fully excavated and reconstructed. In 2006, architect Richard Meier designed the modern museum building that houses the Ara Pacis, providing it with much-needed protection from environmental pollutants and creating an elegant, contemporary setting that contrasts with the ancient artifact.

The museum is dedicated solely to the display of the Ara Pacis, allowing visitors to appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the altar in a serene and light-filled space. It serves as a striking example of Roman art and propaganda, celebrating Augustus’s achievements and the values of the Roman state.