The Roman Forum, also known as the Forum Romanum, was the central location of ancient Rome. Here, merchants traded goods, politicians debated laws, and citizens gathered to discuss news and events. The Forum was more than just a marketplace; it was the soul of Rome, a place where decisions would echo through history.
Today, it’s a massive archaeological site with impressive ruins that provide insight into the history of a powerful civilization. This article will look back in time to learn about its origins, significance, and enduring legacy.
Note: The distance between the Roman Forum and the Colosseum is approximately 500 meters (about 0.3 miles). You may simply walk from one to the other in 5 to 10 minutes.
Opening Hours: 9 am to 7.15 pm
Closed: 25 December and 1 January
Attractions: Sacred Temples, Structures & Civic Buildings
Architectural Style: Ancient Roman and Paleochristian
Best Ticket: Entry ticket
Best Tour: Guided tour
Location: 00186 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy. Get Directions
Entrances
There are several entrances to the Roman Forum, so you should arrange your visit accordingly. Here’s an overview of the access points:
Main Entrance — Via dei Fori Imperiali
This is the official entry point for the Roman Forum, situated along Via dei Fori Imperiali. It allows you to freely explore the Roman Forum from the Piazza Venezia side.
Who is it ideal for?
Tourists who want quick access to the center of the Roman Forum without wasting time.
Via di San Gregorio is a less crowded entry point on the east side of the Forum, close to the Arch of Constantine. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the main gate crowds and don’t mind a bit of extra walking to get to the major sections of the Forum.
Via di San Gregorio
Who is it ideal for?
Visitors who want a quieter and more peaceful experience among the ancient ruins.
Via Sacra
The Via Sacra, or Sacred Way, is the main thoroughfare that cuts through the center of the Roman Forum. This ancient road was the focal point of Roman religious processions, triumphal marches, and daily activities.
Who is it ideal for?
Visitors who want close-up perspectives of various temples, basilicas, and other important buildings that were integral to Roman political life.
Via della Salara Vecchia
The Via della Salara Vecchia entrance provides access to the Forum from the northwest side, near Capitoline Hill. This entrance is close to the Mamertine Prison and offers a less crowded alternative for tourists entering the Forum. You can explore the northeastern section of the Forum, including the area around the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina and the Basilica Aemilia.
Who is it ideal for?
Travelers who prefer a more tranquil start to their visit and wish to explore lesser-known corners of the Forum.
Which Roman Forum Tickets to Book?
Budget-Conscious Travelers
Suggested Ticket:
Ticket Price: €30
This ticket offers a comprehensive and affordable way to explore the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Colosseum. Begin your journey at the Touristation office with a 25-minute multimedia video introduction, then set off to discover the ancient ruins at your own pace. Conclude with a guided English tour that unveils the rich history of Rome’s most iconic sites.
First-Time Visitors
Suggested Ticket:
Ticket Price: €36
This ticket offers an immersive journey through Rome’s most historical sites. With this ticket, experience the Roman Forum like never before! Get combo access to the Colosseum and exclusive access to the Arena Floor, where gladiators once battled. Climb the Palatine Hill and click stunning pictures of the city.
History Lovers
Suggested Ticket:
Ticket Price: €64
This tour is perfect for history lovers, offering an in-depth look at ancient Rome’s most significant landmarks. You will explore the iconic Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets and a guided tour. You will also walk through Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum, seeing famous sites like the Arch of Constantine and the Temple of Saturn.
A Look Back at Roman Forum’s History
The Forum was originally a marketplace and civic center in the 7th century BCE and evolved into Rome’s central location. Over the centuries, it grew into a sprawling complex of temples, basilicas, and government buildings. Here, public speeches were delivered, elections were held, and important religious ceremonies were performed.
During the Republican era, it became surrounded by important structures, such as the Temple of Saturn, the Senate House (Curia), and the Rostra, a platform from which orators addressed the public. These structures reflected Rome’s growing influence and power. Triumphal processions passed through the Forum, celebrating military victories. The Forum was also a site of social and political gatherings for Romans of all classes.
Throughout Roman history, the Forum saw numerous renovations and expansions under various emperors. However, its decline began in the 4th century. Over time, it became buried beneath layers of debris and was used as a quarry for building materials during the Middle Ages.
In the Renaissance, the area began to be excavated and studied, sparking renewed interest in ancient Roman civilization. Its ruins continue to be a powerful symbol of the grandeur and legacy of ancient Rome.
💡Pro Tip: The Roman Forum is part of a larger archaeological complex that includes the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. You can book a combo ticket to get access to all three.
Major Sites
Here’s an overview of the Roman Forum by the types of structures found there:
Sacred Temples
The temples, now in ruins, were dedicated to great deities and served as shrines for emperors and citizens seeking divine favor. Let’s take a look at these fascinating structures:
1. Temple of Vesta
This temple, also known as the Aedes Vestae, was dedicated to Vesta, the goddess of the hearth, home, and family.
The temple housed the sacred fire, symbolizing Rome’s safety and prosperity.
The Vestal Virgins, priestesses chosen from aristocratic families, were assigned to keep it burning constantly. Its extinction was seen as a terrible omen.
Today, you can explore the shrine’s remnants and the nearby House of the Vestal Virgins, where priestesses tended to the flame.
2. Temple of Julius Caesar
The Temple of Julius Caesar, also known as the Temple of Divus Julius, was a monument built after Julius Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC.
This temple marked a significant shift in Roman religion. Previously, only heroes who died defending Rome were deified (turned into gods).
The Temple of Divus Julius established a precedent for emperors to be deified after death, solidifying their power and legacy.
Today, it is mostly in ruins, but the remains of the foundation and the altar where Caesar was cremated can still be seen.
This spot is a popular pilgrimage site; fresh flowers are left there daily as a tribute to Caesar.
3. Temple of Saturn
This temple was at the western end of the Forum and was dedicated to the god Saturn, an agricultural deity associated with time.
It is one of the oldest sacred sites in Rome, and today, you can explore the ruins of its final iteration, a 4th-century AD structure with eight imposing Ionic columns.
The temple had a dual purpose. It served as a religious center for rituals associated with Saturn, but most importantly, it housed the Aerarium, the public treasury of Rome.
4. Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina is one of the best-preserved buildings in the Roman Forum.
It was built by an emperor named Antoninus Pius as a grand gesture of love for his wife Faustina after she died.
After Antoninus Pius died in 161 AD, the temple was deified to honor them.
You can expect to see a towering facade with Corinthian columns and a structure that has been cleverly incorporated into a medieval church
The temple stands near the Roman Forum entrance as a reminder of their love story.
5. Temple of Castor and Pollux (Temple of the Dioscuri)
This temple is dedicated to Castor and Pollux, twin brothers in Roman mythology known for their horsemanship and heroism.
This temple was originally built in the 5th century BC to commemorate their intervention in the Battle of Lake Regillus, where they were believed to have appeared as divine horsemen aiding the Roman army.
The temple underwent several renovations and rebuildings over the centuries.
The final version was completed around 6 AD by Emperor Tiberius.
Even though the temple is mostly in ruins now—only three columns and a podium remain—you may still be able to see its historical significance and once-grand magnitude.
6. Temple of Venus and Roma
The Temple of Venus and Roma was a grand double temple complex dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love, and Roma, the personification of Rome itself.
Emperor Hadrian commissioned its construction in 121 AD, and it was completed around 141 AD.
It was a symbol of imperial power and Roman identity.
You can see stunning ruins of the ancient temple devoted to the goddesses Venus and Roma.
It’s a chance to admire the intricate ancient Roman architecture and get a glimpse into their religious traditions and beliefs.
7. Temple of Romulus
The Temple of Romulus was built by Emperor Maxentius in the early 4th century AD as a memorial to his son Valerius Romulus, who died young.
The temple was later incorporated into the larger Basilica structure by Emperor Constantine.
It served as a shrine to Romulus, the legendary founder of Rome and son of the god Mars.
When you visit the temple today, you will see a well-preserved ancient structure dedicated to Emperor Maxentius’s deified son.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into Roman imperial cult practices and architectural craftsmanship.
Civic Buildings of the Forum
Uncover the political stories behind the Forum’s civic buildings and understand how they shaped the Roman world.
1. Curia Julia
The Curia Julia was the meeting place for the Roman Senate, the legislative body of ancient Rome.
It was built by Julius Caesar around 44 BC but was completed by his successor, Augustus, in 29 BC.
Inside, the senators gathered to debate and decide on state, legislation, and policy matters.
Today, you can expect to see an impressive rectangular structure with a beautiful marble floor and imagine the grandeur of the Roman Senate meetings that once took place here.
2. Basilica Aemilia and Basilica Julia
The Basilica Aemilia and Basilica Julia were separate but adjacent structures on the southwest side, which are now mostly destroyed.
They played crucial roles in Roman civic life, providing spaces for legal proceedings, commercial transactions, and public gatherings.
The Basilica Aemilia is now a collection of foundations and some reconstructed elements, but it still offers a glimpse into the grandeur of a Roman civil basilica.
Similar to the Basilica Aemilia, the Basilica Julia is mostly in ruins. However, you can still see the remains of its foundation, floors, and a few arches
3. Tabularium
The Tabularium was a massive ancient Roman building on the Capitoline Hill overlooking the Roman Forum.
The official records office and archives of the Roman state kept documents, decrees, and historical records dating back to the Republic’s early days.
Today, you can only see the imposing facade and arches of this ancient building, offering a glimpse into Roman bureaucracy.
4. Rostra
The Rostra was a public speaking platform where orators, politicians, and military commanders addressed the citizens of Rome.
The platform was strategically positioned in the Forum to maximize visibility and acoustics.
This allowed the speakers to address large crowds gathered below.
Today, the Rostra is mostly in ruins, but you can still see the remains of a raised platform on which famous speeches and pronouncements were delivered.
5. Regia
The Regia was an ancient royal residence and later the residence of the Pontifex Maximus, the high priest of Roman state religion.
It was considered one of the oldest buildings in Rome, dating back to the 7th century BC.
The Regia was where the sacred rites of Roman kings and, later, the religious rituals of the Pontifex Maximus were conducted.
The remnants of an old royal home and religious complex can still be explored, providing information on early Roman religious customs and the day-to-day activities of kings and high priests.
6. Comitium
This place was an ancient Roman meeting and assembly area in the northwest corner of the Roman Forum.
It was the focal point for political and judicial activities during the Roman Republic.
Here, important decisions were made, laws were proposed and debated, and elections were held.
Today, you can witness the foundations and a few intact monuments, which will pique your interest in the vivid political activities that previously occurred here.
7. Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine
This was one of the largest basilicas in ancient Rome.
It was built between 306 AD and 312 AD by the Roman Emperor Maxentius and completed in 312 AD by Emperor Constantine.
It was a grand public hall for legal proceedings, business transactions, and other administrative functions.
You can find massive vaulted ceilings and towering columns in the northern aisle.
This architectural masterpiece showcases the Roman Empire’s ambition and engineering expertise under the reigns of Maxentius and Constantine.
Commemorative Structures
Commemorative structures were monumental edifices erected to celebrate significant military victories, imperial achievements, and important events in Roman history.
Triumphal Arches
1. Arch of Septimius Severus
This arch was built around 203 AD to commemorate the military victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta, over the Parthians. The arch represents Severus’ successful operations in the East and his consolidation of imperial power. It is a tall white marble triumphal arch embellished with intricate reliefs depicting the emperor’s victories.
2. Arch of Titus
The Arch of Titus is one of Rome’s most iconic triumphal arches. It was constructed in 81 AD by Emperor Domitian to commemorate the military victories of his elder brother, Emperor Titus. The arch features a single archway with detailed reliefs depicting scenes from Titus’s military campaigns, including the sacred menorah from the Temple in Jerusalem.
Columns: Columna rostrata (Lost)
The Columna Rostrata, also known as the Rostral Column, was an ancient Roman victory monument adorned with the prows (rostra) of captured enemy ships. It was built to commemorate naval victories and celebrate Rome’s maritime prowess.
Unfortunately, the original Columna Rostrata and many subsequent columns have been lost to time. However, you can still tour where it once stood and imagine the celebratory atmosphere of Roman victories. Fragments of its inscription are even on display in the Capitoline Museum, offering a tangible connection to this historical relic.
Tips for Visiting the Roman Forum
- Pre-plan your route to prioritize the landmarks you are most interested in.
- Most visitors rush to the major landmarks. Explore the quieter areas, like the Temple of Vesta or the House of the Vestals.
- Take some time to relax on a bench and close your eyes. Visualize the sounds of chariots and the murmur of daily life in ancient Rome.
- To truly appreciate the Roman Forum’s historical significance, consider taking a guided tour led by a historian or archaeologist.
- Plan your visit during Roman festivals or holidays, such as the Ides of March or the Festival of Vestalia. During these times, the Forum may host special ceremonies or rituals that recreate ancient traditions.
- Before your visit, reading historical fiction or non-fiction books set in ancient Rome will help you immerse yourself in the era’s culture, politics, and daily life.
FAQs
1. What is the Roman Forum famous for?
The Forum is famous for being the center of ancient Rome’s political, religious, and social life. It hosted important public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches.
2. How was the Roman Forum destroyed?
It fell into ruin after the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. This decline unfolded over centuries due to neglect, natural disasters like earthquakes, and the reuse of its materials for other building projects.
3. Who was the founder of the Forum?
A single person did not found the Roman Forum, but its development began under the early kings of Rome and continued through the Republic and Imperial periods.
4. What famous events happened in the Roman Forum?
The Forum witnessed numerous events in ancient Roman history, including Julius Caesar’s funeral in 44 BC, where Mark Antony gave his famous eulogy. It was also the site of public speeches by famous orators like Cicero and the venue for political debates.
5. When was the Forum built?
The Forum’s construction began in the 7th century BC and continued to evolve and expand through the Republican and Imperial eras.
Featured Image: Nicole Reyes on Unsplash