The Roman Forum is a bastion of history in the heart of Rome. For hundreds of years it has played host to temples, religious sects, and mythological narratives. Today, there are just remains of the Forum left, though it still oozes a certain charm and splendor that harks back to its golden years.
Today, there are plenty of things to do at the Roman Forum. Here are some of the best.
The Temple of Antoninus Pius
Constructed back in AD 141 in honor of the deified empress, the Temple of Antoninius Pius is made up of six jutting columns and Corinthian capitals. In the 12th Century, the temple was turned into a church for San Lorenzo but it was quickly disengaged from the medieval masonry in the 16th Century after a visit from Emperor Charles V.
The House of the Vestals
Set next to the popular Temple of Vesta, the House of the Vestal Virgins boasts a pretty courtyard adorned with elaborate statues of the head vestals and their virtues. The house formed an important part of Roman history and remains a fascinating way to discover more about this unique part of ancient life.
The Temple of Castor and Pollux
Only a smattering of Corinthian columns remain of the Temple of Castor and Pollux after it was rebuilt in the 1st century AD under the reign of Tiberius. It was built in honor of Castor and Pollux, two characters that often popped up in ancient myths and Roman legends. The remaining three columns are now known as The Three Sisters.
The Temple of Saturn
Dating back to 497 BC, the Temple of Saturn was, at one point in time, one of the most integral parts of the Roman Republic. It was actually the very first temple to be built in the Forum. Over the years it has repeatedly been ruined by fires, but it has always been rebuilt. Today, it is one of the most popular attractions in the Roman Forum and is steeped in thousands of years of history.
The Arch of Septimius Severus
Centuries ago, the Roman Senate regularly built triumphal arches to celebrate victorious emperors and generals. The Arch of Septimius Severus was built in AD 203 opposite the impressive church of Santi Martina e Luca to honor Septimius Severus and his two sons Caracalla and Geta.
The Roman Forum is a great way to delve into the fascinating history of Rome and its surroundings.
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