Laser Restoration Revives the Column of Marcus Aurelius

A $2.3 million laser restoration project is currently revitalizing the 1,840-year-old Column of Marcus Aurelius in central Rome. A team of 18 specialist restorers has been engaged since spring 2025, employing handheld short-pulse lasers and chemical wraps to eliminate centuries of grime from the 100-foot-tall monument. Built between 180 CE and 193 CE, the column commemorates the Roman philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius and is one of the few Roman-era war monuments still standing in its original location, situated in front of the Palazzo Chigi, the official residence of Italy’s prime minister.

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The chief restorer, Marta Baumgartner, emphasized that this project represents the most extensive use of laser technology ever applied to an ancient monument. Baumgartner noted that while the laser method is more expensive than traditional restoration techniques, it yields superior results in terms of both restoration quality and efficiency. The technology not only preserves the integrity of the marble but also respects the natural aging of the stone. The restoration team is addressing significant issues, including black and gray deposits, cracks, and erosion caused by decades of environmental exposure and previous unsuitable restoration materials.

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The Column of Marcus Aurelius features spiral friezes that depict the Roman Empire’s wars under Aurelius, wrapping 23 times around the monument and forming a continuous narrative from base to summit. The structure consists of 18 marble drums adorned with over 2,000 figures, including soldiers, prisoners, gods, and animals. Notably, the original statue of Marcus Aurelius atop the column was replaced in 1589 with a bronze statue of St. Paul. The square surrounding the column was closed following a 2013 assassination attempt targeting guards at the Palazzo Chigi and only reopened in 2023.

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The laser restoration is expected to be completed in early 2026, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of this historical monument. The project not only aims to restore the visual splendor of the column but also serves as a critical resource for scholars, with plaster casts made in 1955 displayed in the Museum of Roman Civilization.

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While the restoration has garnered support for its innovative approach, some critics have raised concerns regarding the costs involved and the potential risks associated with using advanced technology on ancient artifacts. The debate continues over the balance between modern restoration techniques and the preservation of historical authenticity.

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• “The laser is a tool that is producing excellent results in restoration work, and the choice we made was to use it on the entire external frieze, the decorative band, of the column,” — Marta Baumgartner, Chief Restorer

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• “It costs more than traditional methods.” — Marta Baumgartner, Chief Restorer

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• “ She also said the technology helps preserve the monument’s integrity.” — Marta Baumgartner, Chief Restorer

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This restoration project exemplifies the intersection of modern technology and historical preservation, ensuring that the legacy of Marcus Aurelius remains visible for future generations.

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