The Roman Forum’s vast and intricate layout makes it difficult for visitors to understand its formation.
A map will help you orient yourself and understand the forum’s important structures.
The map makes finding your suitable entrance and exploring the Roman Forum easy.
Inside Roman Forum
From the majestic ruins of the Roman Forum to the intimate remains of the Temple of Vesta, the Forum offers a glimpse into the majesty and everyday life of one of the most powerful empires in history.
Visitors to the Roman Forum can explore the ruins of temples, government buildings, and public spaces that once formed the center of Roman life.
The visit will reveal the rise and fall of the Roman Empire and the ways in which Roman culture and law have shaped the modern world.
As you explore the Roman Forum, be sure not to miss these must-see monuments.
Temple of Castor and Pollux
In ancient Rome, a temple was built for Castor and Pollux, sons of the god Jupiter.
Once a magnificent structure, only the three main columns and the inner platform remain.
Every year on July 15th, processions of 5,000 men led by two people pretending to be Castor and Pollux would march to the temple to honor them.
Temple of Caeser
The Temple of Caesar was dedicated to Julius Caesar after his posthumous deification in 29 BC.
It was built on the site of his cremation by Emperor Augustus in 29 BC, following the posthumous deification of Julius Caesar.
The temple was unique as it was dedicated to the cult of a comet, symbolizing Augustus’s “new birth” as Roman ruler.
Although only the cement core of its platform remains, it is still a revered site where fresh flowers are placed daily.
Temple of Vespasian
Constructed under the Flavian Dynasty’s rule, the Temple of Vespasian celebrated the reign of Emperor Vespasian.
Initiated by Vespasian’s successor and son, King Titus, it was later finished by the younger son, King Domitian.
Following the ancient Roman tradition, the Temple was built to honor both Emperor Vespasian and his son, Titus.
Materials like brick, concrete, and marble were used to construct the Temple.
Temple of Saturn
Surrounded by eight majestic columns, this temple was a sacred place devoted to Saturn.
Constructed with a blend of Egyptian granite, travertine rocks, and Thasian marble, the Temple of Saturn is one of the Roman Forum’s most one of the most visited or commonly seen buildings in the Roman Forum.
There was a huge statue of Saturn inside the temple. You could tell this from the writing or inscription outside the temple.
During religious festivals, people used to visit this revered site.
Arch of Septimius Severus
At the northwest terminus of the Roman Forum, one encounters the impressive Arch of Septimius Severus, an elegant triumphal arch made of white marble.
Erected in 203 AD to celebrate Emperor Septimius Severus’s Parthian conquests, the arch stands atop a travertine base.
A substantial section of the arch has survived today, affording visitors a splendid glimpse of exceptional Roman artistry.
Arch of Titus
In 70 AD, the Siege of Jerusalem started the Roman-Jewish war, culminating in a victory for Emperor Vespasian and his eldest son, Titus.
In remembrance, Domitian, Vespasian’s younger son and Titus’ brother, led the creation of the Arch of Titus.
This arch was constructed after Titus died in 81 AD.
While the ages have weathered numerous sculptures on the side panels, some have astonishingly endured, staying well-preserved and intact.
The Rostra
Initially, the Rostra served as a platform for leaders to communicate with people.
Julius Caesar initiated its construction, and later, it was finished by his nephew, Caesar Augustus.
Measuring 5 m (16.4 ft) in height and 30 m (98.4 ft) in width, it was adorned with the ship rams taken from conquered vessels.
These shiprams were referred to as “rostra,” which is how the structure got its name.
Typically, politicians use it during elections.
Senate House
Also called Curia, the Senate House was the official meeting spot for the senators.
Over time, the Curia underwent numerous constructions, being the most famous one built by Julius Caesar.
Later, it was transformed into a church in around 630 A.D.
Unfortunately, the original wall decorations deteriorated over the years or were robbed following the fall of the Roman Empire.
The Via Sacra
The Sacred Way, or Via Sacra, was the primary road in ancient Rome, leading to Capitoline Hill.
It functioned as a stage for triumphant marches, public processions, and religious celebrations.
The street held tremendous cultural importance and was central to all significant gatherings in ancient Rome.
Additionally, many Roman emperors were revered and honored along the Via Sacra, as it was regarded as a sacred thoroughfare.
Temple of Vesta
Beyond the Temple of Vesta lies a rich tapestry of history.
At its center, the temple housed an unceasing, eternal flame symbolizing perpetual vigilance.
It was firmly believed that the extinguishing of this flame would mark the collapse of the Roman Empire.
The Temple’s purpose was to serve the Vestal Virgins, a community of women who vowed to remain unmarried.
As time passed, some sections of the temple naturally deteriorated.
The Regia
The Regia was initially the home of Roman kings and their families, later transitioning into the official residence of the highest priest, the Pontifex Maximus.
The Regia’s central location is at the heart of the Roman Forum, highlighting its paramount significance.
Although only fragments of its once magnificent structure remain, a trip to the Roman Forum offers an opportunity to explore its historical background.
Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
Situated directly across from the Regia, this temple was initially constructed in 141 AD by Emperor Antoninus Pius in honor of his wife, Roman Empress Faustina the Elder.
Following Antoninus’ passing in 161 AD, Marcus Aurelius reconstructed the temple, transforming it into a shrine dedicated to Antoninus and Faustina.
In subsequent times, the temple became a Roman Catholic Church and was named San Lorenzo in Miranda.
Basilica Julia
Initiated by Julius Caesar, the construction of the Basilica Julia was subsequently finished by his nephew and successor, Augustus.
Initially serving as a government meeting place, the structure transformed into a church at a later time.
Formed of marble, the Basilica Julia suffered considerable damage over the years due to extensive historical excavations aimed at mining and rescuing marble.
House of Vestal Virgins
The House of the Vestal Virgins, situated behind the Temple of Vesta in the Roman Forum, served as the dwelling place for the Vestal Virgins.
Found at the base of the Palatine Hill, this complex underwent several reconstructions throughout Roman history.
Today, all that remains within the Atrium Vestae are the statues of the Vestals.
Temple of Jupiter
Located atop Capitol Hill, the Temple of Jupiter served as a shrine devoted to the god Jupiter.
In ancient times, Romans worshiped natural elements such as the sun, planets, stars, and water.
Fashioned from materials like terracotta, tuff, and marble, the Temple of Jupiter held immense cultural importance among the people.
Though much of the original structure has rusted with time, you can discover its history and significance through inscriptions.
Book a Roman Forum Priority access ticket for just €64 and walk through these temples, experiencing ancient Roman Life.
