Bronze altar, 1st-2nd century AD

This bronze altar (ara in Latin) was formed by a core, not preserved, made of wood or concrete, with the sides covered with squared, mould bronze sheets. The core was originally placed on a stone block, still on site, in front of the temple of Hercules, which is decorated with a mosaic floor and wall paintings.

On the front side of the altar there is a dedicatory inscription left by a veteran recalled to duty, Septimius Popilianus (C. SEPTIMIUS / POPILIANVS / EVOC(ATVS) AVG(USTI) / V(OTVM) S(OLVIT). On the right side there is an applied patera (cup) on relief, while on the left there is an urceus (jug), only partially preserved.

The pulvino is embellished on the front by decorations made of bronze sheets, applied symmetrically.

Bronze altars represent a very rare and precious votive offer in sanctuaries during Roman times.

This altar was found on the upper terrace of the sanctuary of Hercules in 1959 and its extraordinary state of preservation can be considered unique in its kind.