Return of the Dioscuri: Iconic Roman Statues Restored for Jubilee Year
The Dioscuri, the ancient Roman statues of the demigods Castor and Pollux, have been restored to their former glory after a meticulous 240-day restoration, unveiled just in time for the Roman Catholic Jubilee Holy Year. These iconic statues, which have been positioned outside the presidential Quirinale Palace since the 16th century, also signify a deep historical connection as the residence of popes.
Claudio Parisi Presicce, the Capitoline superintendent, welcomed back the sons of Jupiter and Leda, highlighting their unique nature—one being mortal and the other divine, reflecting a perpetual exchange every six months. This duality serves as a profound symbol of fraternal harmony essential to the city of Rome during this sacred year.
Rome’s Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, remarked on how this restoration seamlessly aligns with the message of the Jubilee year, expressing gratitude for the dedication shown in completing such a demanding project in a remarkably short span. "This gives us wonders and anticipates the restoration of the facades of the square," Gualtieri noted, emphasizing the statues' role in warmly welcoming visitors ascending the Steps of the Cordonata, which lead up from the renowned Trevi Fountain.
The Dioscuri statues, believed to date back to the 2nd century during the Antonine age, have an intriguing history linked to the succession of Hadrian and Lucius Verus. They were discovered between 1561 and 1565 near the Circo Flaminio, an area that now lies between the Teatro di Marcello and Via Arenula, close to the Campidoglio—the location of the ancient Temple of Castores. Their restoration history is extensive, having undergone a twenty-year restoration process involving numerous sculptors in the past.
These statues are composed primarily of precious Pentelic marble, with some Carrara marble, a fact that complicates restoration work due to their exposure to pollution and weather elements. The last cleansing effort was conducted in 2006, showcasing the need for ongoing preservation efforts. The recent restoration, culminating in an expense of 270,000 euros, forms part of the Caput Mundi initiative—an integral component of Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) aimed at celebrating and preserving cultural heritage as part of the jubilee celebrations.
With this restoration, the Dioscuri stand ready once again to greet visitors to Rome, representing not just their historical significance but also the enduring legacy of artistry and devotion found within the city’s rich cultural landscape.
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