Final answer:
Advanced technology, specifically soil freezing, was crucial in the 1937 extraction of the Ara Pacis fragments, aiding archaeologists in preserving this significant historical artifact. The extraction was part of Mussolini's efforts to connect with Roman heritage and reflected a broader shift towards more careful archaeological practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Advanced Technology in Archaeology
The excavation and recovery of the Ara Pacis fragments required sophisticated archaeological techniques due to the challenging conditions. In the rediscovery and extraction of the last remaining fragments of the Ara Pacis from the soil, advanced technology was employed by archaeologists. One notable method used in the 1937 excavation was the technique of freezing the soil involving approximately 70 cubic meters of soil to stabilize the site. This allowed the careful extraction of the fragile artifacts without causing further damage to them.
The Ara Pacis, an altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of Peace, was a significant historical and symbolic artifact. Its recovery was ordered by Benito Mussolini as part of his regime's efforts to align with the glory of the Roman Empire. The complex history surrounding the Ara Pacis underscores its importance not only as a cultural relic but also as an element intertwined with political narratives over time.
Technological advancements in archaeology have been vital in preserving and understanding our past. The use of such technologies reflects a shift in the field, focusing on the careful treatment of artifacts and respecting the context in which they were found. Furthermore, contemporary archaeological practices have become more mindful of the rights and sovereignty of local communities in decision-making about excavations.