Ancient Aquileia's longevity discreetly discussed by Bassil
In the heart of northeastern Italy, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the vibrant cultural landscape, lies the ancient Roman city of Aquileia. It was here that **Bassilla**, a celebrated actress and singer, was born and rose to legendary status, earning the title of the "tenth Muse" in Roman theatrical and musical circles.
### A City of Wealth and Culture Aquileia, a significant strategic port, was renowned for its wealth and cultural vibrancy. As a notable artist emerging from this important cultural hub, Bassilla's association with the city marked her as a figure of significance.
### A Legendary Career Bassilla gained fame primarily as a **singer and actress**, excelling in Roman theater, which often combined music, acting, and poetry. Her artistic versatility and expressive performance captivated audiences and critics alike, earning her a legendary reputation.
Being called the **"tenth Muse"** signifies that contemporaries considered her creative and artistic abilities comparable to (or surpassing) the legendary nine Muses from Greek mythology, who presided over the arts and sciences.
### A Lasting Legacy Historical texts and inscriptions mention Bassilla, highlighting her prominence in Roman cultural life. She became a symbol of artistic excellence and female performance talent during a period when actresses and female performers gained increasing visibility.
While precise biographical details are sparse, the reverence of her name attests to the lasting impression she made on Roman artistic traditions.
The National Archaeological Museum of Aquileia, housed in an 18th-century villa since 1882, showcases a fusion of cultures, as evident in its artifacts like the mosaic of grapevines tied with a bow. The Museum's recent rearrangement highlights the flow of faces, events, and constructions, presenting each object in its context of use.
Among the Museum's treasures is the stele of Bassilla, a mime from the 2nd century AD, found in a necropolis in the southern area of Aquileia. The stele was dedicated to Bassilla by Heraicles, an actor skilled in declamation, who called her the tenth Muse.
The wealth of Aquileia is evident, as testified by dozens of artifacts in the National Archaeological Museum of Aquileia. The city was established as an outpost against the Gauls and Istrians in 181 BC, and its crowded forum, bustling port, and domus where prayers were offered to Lares, Manes, and Penates bear witness to its prosperity.
Today, the ambiance outside the Museum is characterized by the song of cicadas and a pensive atmosphere, transporting visitors back to the ancient world where Bassilla's legacy continues to shine.
In Aquileia, the city that nurtured Bassilla, a figure of significance Emerged from its Wealth and cultural vibrancy, her popularity as a home-and-garden similar to the legendary Greek Muses earned her the title "tenth Muse". Even today, her lasting Legacy continues to inspire, as evident in the National Archaeological Museum of Aquileia, which showcases artifacts that bear Witness to the city's rich lifestyle.
