College of the Augustales: A Glimpse into Imperial Worship

The College of the Augustales, or Collegio degli Augustali, provides invaluable insights into the lives and beliefs of Herculaneum's citizens. Unearthed from the volcanic debris that buried the city in 79 AD, this building was a hub for the Augustales, a civic order consisting of freed slaves who played a role in the imperial cult. Constructed around 14 BC, the College of the Augustales was sponsored by two brothers, Aulus Lucius Proculus and Aulus Lucius Iulianus. Inside the college, visitors can observe the remains of a large hall divided by four columns, with a shrine at the back. The walls were adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting mythological scenes, showcasing the artistic style of the era. One of the columns features graffiti inviting people to vote in the Augustan Curia. Excavations at the site have revealed details about the college's function and the individuals who frequented it. A dedicatory inscription on the north wall commemorates the construction of the building and the banquet hosted by the brothers for the decuriones and the Augustales. The skeleton of the custodian was also discovered on a bed in a room next to the shrine. The artifacts found, including statues and household items, offer a glimpse into the daily lives and social structures of Herculaneum.