Archaeology and National Identity in the Works of Rodolfo Lanciani

Designated successor of the pontifical archaeologists, Rodolfo Lanciani interpreted the profession of archaeologist with the assumption of both technical-scientific and political functions. His professional career spanned a period that goes from the Italian national unity to the developmental stages of the Fascist regime. During his career, there were several urban, archaeological and cultural projects, determined by imperatives of the national policy that show clear ideological values and in connection with which the archaeological monuments of Rome played an active role of ideal reference. Specific episodes of Lanciani’s scientific and institutional activity are elaborated on with regard to national identity: the monuments and celebrations planned following the death of King Vittorio Emanuele II and the period during the First World War when his political role saw him actively engaged in promoting national values.