English
English
Quick information
RECOMMENDED DURATION
2 hours
Timings
9am–4:30pm
TICKETS
From € 21.51
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
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- Palazzo Merulana
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- Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
- Rome: Ostia Antica
Contents
All You Need to Know About the Roman Forum | A Definitive Guide
How to Buy Tickets to the Roman Forum
Quick Facts about the Roman Forum
- Official name: The Roman Forum
- Location/Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
- Date of opening: Founded over 2,500 years ago
- Timings: Generally open from 9 AM to 7:15 PM (can vary according to time of year)
- Architect: Multiple emperors and architects contributed to its various structures
- Architectural style: Ancient Roman architecture with Classical Greek influences
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Designated in 1980
- Number of visitors annually: Approximately 4.5 million visitors
- Function: Open-air museum/tourist attraction
Plan Your Visit to the Roman Forum
Opening Hours
27 March to 31 August 2023: 9 AM-7:15 PM.
1 October to 30 October: 9:30 AM-6:30 PM
31 October to 26 March: 9:30 AM-4:30 PM
Last entry is at 6:15 PM.
Closed: The Roman Forum is closed on December 25 and January 1.
Best time to visit: Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and a cooler atmosphere, allowing you to soak in the attraction’s offerings at your own pace.
Detailed Roman Forum Opening Hours
Location
Address: Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.
Find on Maps.
The Roman Forum is nestled in the heart of Rome, Italy and is very close to the magnificent Colosseum and Capitoline Hill. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Palatine Hill, the Forum is also near the tranquil Tiber River.
Nearest Metro Station: Line B, Colosseo Stop
Landmarks nearby: Colosseum, Palatine Hill
Directions to the Roman ForumWhat to See Inside: Roman Forum Buildings and Structures
Cloaca Maxima (Rome's Greatest Sewer)
Explore the Cloaca Maxima, one of ancient Rome’s greatest sewers. This engineering marvel showcases Rome's advanced infrastructure. It served to drain nearby marshes as well as remove waste. Later, public baths and latrines were also connected to its network.
Rostra
The Rostra, or speaker's platform, was the podium from which riveting speeches were made before an eager audience. It was also here that Caesar's funeral speech was made by Antony. Much of what we see of the Rostra today are the results of early 20th-century restoration efforts.
Lapis Niger
Revered as the "Black Stone," Lapis Niger conceals a shrine between the Curia Julia and the Arch of Septimius Severus. This enigmatic artifact is believed to be the tomb of Romulus (Rome’s founder). It contains one of the oldest inscriptions in Latin.
Tabularium
The tabularium was a repository of ancient Rome’s repository of public records and offices of many city officials. It also contained the written remnants of laws and deeds. It is a commanding structure within the Forum and you can ascend it for panoramic vistas.
Basilica Julia
Previously, the Basilica Julia housed court rooms and conducted legal proceedings under its roof. This large, ornate building was also used to settle matters of inheritance. In sum, it was Rome's judicial hub. The Basilica was once burnt down to the ground, and has been rebuilt several times since.
Temple of Vesta
Dedicated to the goddess of the hearth, the Temple of Vesta was home to the Vestal Virgins. They had to ensure that the eternal flame inside the temple never went out — as a marker of Rome's everlasting prosperous rule. The interiors are circular, intending to face the sun, the archetypal hearth.
Curia Julia
The Curia Julia was a Senate house that was the seat of Rome's political power. Although several fires ravaged Curia Julia, it was rebuilt many times. In 1938, Mussolini restored the Curia to commemorate the 2000th birth anniversary of Augustus, Rome's first emperor.
Temple of Saturn
After the temples of Vesta and Jupiter, the Temple of Saturn is the oldest sacred site in Rome. This site was also the treasury of the Roman empire, storing its gold and silver reserves. This was because Saturn was associated with agriculture. Eight of its majestic columns are still standing.
Temple of Caesar
The temple was commissioned by Augustus after Caesar's death and marks his grave. Only the altar remains, and fresh flowers are placed to pay homage even today. People from world over visit to honor a figure whose impact transcended his time.
Comitium
The Comitium witnessed political debates and public gatherings that shaped Rome's destiny. This was the spot where civic life unfurled, with discussions spanning religion. philosophy, etc.
Lacus Curtius
One of the most mysterious elements within the Forum, Lacus Curtius, was allegedly a lake bed that was rumoured to be the entry to the underworld. This unassuming spot is now filled up.
Arch of Septimius Severus
Stroll under the Arch of Septimius Severus, a triumphant gateway that is adorned proudly with Roman spoils of war. The arches contain richly decorated scenes from victories against Parthia, now modern Iran. Passing through this arch is meant to evoke the glory of Roman triumphs.
Architecture and Design of the Roman Forum
The architectural style of the Forum is a mix of Greek and Roman styles. The temples are in the Greek style, while the basilicas and other public buildings are in the Roman style.
The Roman Forum is built of concrete, marble, and travertine, with its columns being imported from all over the world.
The Roman Forum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1980, the Roman Forum earned UNESCO World Heritage status.
Its role as a city center from the 7th century BC to the 4th century AD portrays an exceptional continuum of development. As a marvel of human ingenuity, it exemplifies the remarkable architectural and engineering prowess of the Roman Empire.
Being an altered cultural landscape, it provides a vital glimpse into past environments. Its presence serves as a remarkable testament to a vanished civilization and cultural heritage.
The Roman Forum stands as a globally significant archaeological site, a testament to the Roman Empire's dominion, perpetually captivating and inspiring worldwide visitors.
Plan Your Visit to the Roman ForumFrequently Asked Questions About the Roman Forum
What is the Roman Forum?
The Roman Forum is a mesmerizing open-air museum in Rome, where ancient history comes alive. It's a sprawling complex of ruins that once served as the heart of Roman life.
Why visit the Roman Forum?
Step into the footsteps of emperors, feel the energy of ancient debates, and be part of history. Visiting Roman Forum is a chance to touch the past and uncover the stories of Rome's glory.
How can I get tickets to the Roman Forum?
Booking tickets online and in advance is the way to go. Opt for combo tickets that include the Colosseum and Palatine Hill – a triple treat of Roman wonders.
How much does it cost to visit the Roman Forum?
Standard flexible entry tickets to the Roman Forum start at €19. Prices vary according to your preferred ticket types like guided tours, combo tickets, etc.
What can I do at the Roman Forum?
Explore awe-inspiring ruins, like the the Arch of Titus, Cloaca Maxima and the Temples of Saturn and Vesta. Imagine orators on the Rostra, or podium and soak in the ambiance of a civilization that shaped the world.
Are guided tours available at the Roman Forum?
Yes, guided tours are available at the Roman Forum. Benefit from the insightful commentary of expert multilingual tour guides.
Who built the Roman Forum?
Various architects contributed to its creation over centuries, leaving a magnificent mosaic of styles and stories. Emperors like Caesar and Augustus shaped its contours over the years.
When did the Roman Forum open?
The Roman Forum is at least 2500 years old.
What's inside the Roman Forum?
Discover ruins of temples (like Temples of Vesta and Saturn), arches (like Arch of Titan), and political hubs (like Curia Julia and Tabularium), each echoing a different era of Rome's grandeur.
What are the Roman Forum opening hours?
The Roman Forum is open generally between 9 AM and 7:15 PM. Please check the month of visiting to know the exact opening and closing hours of the Roman Forum. Last entry is an hour before closing time.
When is the best time to visit the Roman Forum?
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and a cooler ambiance.
Where is the Roman Forum?
Established in the heart of Rome, the Roman Forum’s address is Via della Salara Vecchia, 5/6, 00186 Roma RM, Italy.
Is the Roman Forum wheelchair accessible?
As it is an old structure, only certain parts of the Roman Forum are wheelchair accessible. The cobbled stones and large gaps make it a challenging terrain for wheels.
Are there dining options available in the Roman Forum?
While there are no restaurants inside the Roman Forum, there are plenty of restaurant and cafe options to explore in the vicinity like Marco Martini Roma, Ristorante Roof Garden, etc.
Is photography allowed at the Roman Forum?
Photography is permitted inside the Roman Forum. However, tripods are not allowed to be brought inside.
Is there a dress code to be followed at the Roman Forum?
Dressing comfortably (both clothing and shoes) is key while visiting the Roman Forum. However, there are no attire restrictions as such, although weather-appropriate dressing is recommended.
What other attractions are near the Roman Forum?
Visit the Colosseum and Palatine Hill for an unforgettable trifecta of ancient wonders.
