The Roman Forum (Foro Romano) is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It is a sprawling complex of ruins from the Roman Republic and Empire which span over two thousand years of history. Steeped in mythology, the Forum was the center of political, social, and religious life in ancient Rome. Here visitors can explore the remains of temples, basilicas, and other buildings, as well as the ruins of the Roman Senate, the Curia Julia, and the Rostra. Here are 10 things to do in the Roman Forum.
1. Visit the Temple of Saturn: The Temple of Saturn is one of the oldest and most impressive temples in the Forum. It was built in 497 BC and dedicated to the god Saturn. It is the only temple in the Forum that still has its original eight columns standing.
2. Visit the Temple of Vesta: The Temple of Vesta is one of the oldest temples in the Forum. It was built in the 6th century BC and dedicated to the goddess Vesta. The temple was used to house the sacred fire of Rome, which was tended to by a group of Vestal Virgins.
3. Visit the Temple of Castor and Pollux: The Temple of Castor and Pollux is a stunning temple dedicated to the twin brothers of Roman mythology. It was built in 495 BC and is one of the most well-preserved temples in the Forum.
4. Visit the Curia Julia: The Curia Julia is the former meeting place of the Roman Senate. It was built in 44 BC and is one of the most impressive buildings in the Forum. It is now home to a small museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Roman Senate.
5. Visit the Rostra: The Rostra is a platform in the Forum where Roman leaders would make speeches. It was built in the 2nd century BC and is one of the most iconic sites in the Forum.
6. Visit the Arch of Septimius Severus: The Arch of Septimius Severus is a stunning arch built in 203 AD to commemorate the victories of the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. It is one of the most recognizable monuments in the Forum.
7. Visit the House of the Vestal Virgins: The House of the Vestal Virgins is a small house located in the Forum where the Vestal Virgins lived and tended to the sacred fire of Rome. It is one of the most interesting sites in the Forum.
8. Visit the Temple of Julius Caesar: The Temple of Julius Caesar is a temple built in 42 BC to honor the Roman dictator Julius Caesar. It is one of the most important monuments in the Forum.
9. Visit the Arch of Titus: The Arch of Titus is a stunning arch built in 81 AD to commemorate the victories of the Roman Emperor Titus. It is one of the most impressive monuments in the Forum.
10. Visit the Column of Phocas: The Column of Phocas is a column built in 608 AD to commemorate the victories of the Roman Emperor Phocas. It is one of the most interesting monuments in the Forum.
The Roman Forum is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It is a sprawling complex of ruins from the Roman Republic and Empire which span over two thousand years of history. Visiting the Forum is a must for any traveler to Rome, as it is a great way to learn about the history of the city and its people. Whether you are interested in Roman mythology, architecture, or politics, the Forum has something for everyone.