The core of ancient Rome, where the grandest monuments were built, is between the Colosseum and Capitoline Hill. It’s the most famous and historically important of Rome's famous Seven Hills.

The Capitoline Hill — which rises majestically from the busy streets — has, since the Middle Ages, been the home of Rome’s city government. During the Renaissance, Michelangelo designed this regal staircase. He gave the square its famously harmonious proportions with this dramatic centerpiece: a statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

This is a copy. The second-century original — considered the greatest equestrian statue of antiquity — is now showcased in the adjacent Capitoline Museum. Art like this, safely out of the elements and beautifully displayed indoors, helps you imagine life in Rome at its peak.

These reliefs show Marcus Aurelius performing the various duties of an emperor: Here, as the chief priest, or “pontifex maximus,” he prepares an offering to Jupiter. Here, on the battlefield, he graciously pardons barbarian leaders. And here, you’re curbside at a kind of ticker-tape victory parade with the emperor — on a chariot, Winged Victory on his shoulder, and trumpets proclaiming his glory.

The art of imperial Rome almost always carried a message. Like this poignant reminder of victory over a worthy foe: a tragically wounded barbarian called the Dying Gaul. Like so much propaganda art, battle scenes stoked imperial pride. Wandering among heroic statues in grand halls…you can look into the eyes of long-forgotten emperors.

And the museum also shows a more peaceful and intimate side of Roman life. Here, a boy quietly pulls a thorn from his foot.

At first glance, this looks like a painting, but it’s actually a micro-mosaic, made of thousands of tiny chips. Mosaics like this decorated Emperor Hadrian’s luxurious villa.

And this tipsy faun is a playful reminder that a trait of ancient Rome that survives to this day is a love of good food and fine wine.