Discover 131 treasures from Liverpool’s National Museums in Shanghai. Explore Roman sculptures, emperors, and interactive displays.
Shanghai is now home to a spectacular journey through ancient Rome. The “Roma: From Olympus to Capitoline” exhibition opened on November 10th at the World Expo Museum, bringing 131 treasures from Liverpool’s National Museums to China for the first time.
Visitors can explore three fascinating themes: Rome’s mythological beginnings, the rise and fall of its empire, and everyday life in the ancient city. The collection includes sculptures, pottery, glassware, gemstones, and sarcophagi reliefs, most of which are on display in Shanghai for the first time.
Divine Myths and Imperial Portraits
Step into the world of Roman gods with nearly 20 large statues, including Zeus and Poseidon. These works show how the Romans creatively adapted Greek myths. One highlight is a sculpture of the hunting goddess Artemis, carefully reconstructed from 127 marble fragments.
The exhibition also presents 26 busts of emperors and nobles, such as Augustus, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius. Together, they tell the story of Rome’s transformation from a small city-state into a mighty empire.
Beyond historical artefacts, the exhibition offers immersive experiences. Walk among the gods, watch the “Oracle of the Seasons” light display, or take on “The Twelve Labours of Hercules” in interactive challenges.
Conservation and Craftsmanship
Marissa Prandelli, a Sculpture conservator at the National Museum of Liverpool, explained that some restoration work began as early as 2017. Careful techniques were used to preserve the sculptures’ authenticity while meeting modern conservation standards. She emphasised that bringing these treasures to China is a rare opportunity and that the exhibition promises to impress with both the historical significance of the artefacts and the quality of the display.
For culture enthusiasts and history lovers, this exhibition offers a unique chance to experience ancient Rome through the eyes of both scholars and storytellers—right in the heart of Shanghai. It will run until May 5th, 2026.
Additional reporting by Expo Museum.cn, CNS.
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