The power of the Five Good Emperors: Marcus Aurelius in the focus of the state exhibition

The power of the Five Good Emperors: Marcus Aurelius in the focus of the state exhibition

In 2025, history lovers in Trier will celebrate a special state exhibition dedicated to the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his reign. This takes place until November 23rd and is part of the series of cultural highlights in the region. A central theme of the exhibition is the succession to the throne and the political decisions of Hadrian, who sought a successor 1900 years ago and adopted Marcus Aurelius. The young emperor comes from a line of important rulers known as “the Five Good Emperors,” including Nerva, Trajan, Hadrian and Antoninus Pius, who ruled from 96 to 180 AD.

Marcus Aurelius became heir to the throne in 161 AD and was the adopted son of Antoninus Pius, who was himself adopted by Hadrian. Hadrian had previously adopted a Roman senator, whose son Lucius was also later recognized by Antoninus Pius. In doing so, they established an innovative succession system that was not based on blood relations, but on suitability and ability. This “adoptive system” became crucial to the stability of the Roman Empire and encouraged a peaceful transfer of power. Hadrian and his successors, including Marcus Aurelius, excelled in leadership and fair governance.

Cultural heritage and challenges

The exhibition in Trier shows impressive portraits, including a rare bronze depiction of Marcus Aurelius. During his reign he ruled over an empire of around 50 million people and waged brutal campaigns against the Marcomanni. These conflicts are an important part of its history as they illustrate the challenges the empire faced. Historians such as Cassius Dio describe Marcus Aurelius's death in 180 AD as the end of a "golden age" for the Roman Empire.

Another aspect of the exhibition addresses “good rule,” with items on loan depicting both positive and negative aspects of governance. While Marcus Aurelius' reign was seen by many as exemplary, his son Commodus, considered eccentric and cruel, is often described as the opposite. His rule broke with the principles of the adoptive system and led to power struggles and political upheavals.

Regional highlights and museums

In addition to the special exhibition on Marcus Aurelius, the region offers many cultural attractions. In Clervaux, Luxembourg, you can visit the “Family of Man” exhibition, which shows 503 black and white photographs. The German Newspaper Museum in Wadgassen focuses on the development of the media and freedom of the press, while the Fire Brigade Museum in Hermeskeil presents historical equipment and vehicles.

In addition, the Villa Vauban in Luxembourg shows an exhibition of paintings about Italy from the 17th to the 19th century and the Folklore Museum in Prüm provides insights into life in the Eifel with historical tools. For those interested in Far Eastern culture, Traben-Trarbach offers a collection of 2,000 Buddha figures in a restored winery. The cultural offering is rounded off by the partner exhibition in the Center Pompidou Metz, which shows art copiers in collaboration with the Louvre until February 2, 2026.

This rich cultural diversity in the region is enriched all the more by the state exhibition, while at the same time raising awareness of the historical and political significance of Marcus Aurelius and the so-called “Five Good Emperors” of the Roman Empire.