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Contents
Interesting Facts About the Roman Forum
1. Political, Religious and Cultural Centre of Ancient Rome
The Roman Forum was the centre of everything in ancient Rome but later evolved into a political and religious centre, attracting thousands of Romans daily. The structure’s history spans over a millennium, something few attractions in the world can match. While Rome is filled with magnificent archaeological sites, the Roman Forum stands apart as is one of the world's most significant ruins.
2. Romulus’ Rumored Burial Site, or Lapis Niger
According to legend, one of Rome's founding twins, Romulus, nurtured by a she-wolf, is buried at the site. While the cause of his death isn’t clear, historians say that he was buried within the city. Today, it is marked by the Lapis Niger, a massive black marble, which is located in the Comitium. It contains inscriptions in archaic Latin that is yet to be deciphered.
3. The Roman Forum Became A Grazing Field, or 'Campo Vaccino'
After the fall of the Roman Empire and during the Middle Ages, the Roman Forum fell into neglect and transformed into a grazing field, or ‘Campo Vaccino’. During this period, many of its stones and structures were also stolen for constructing other buildings.
4. The Temple of Vesta Was Home to Vestal Virgins
The Roman Forum held various massive structures, including the Temple of Vesta, where girls aged 6 to 10 became priestesses. They tended the sacred fire, fetched water, prepared ritual food, and cared for temple items. However, soon after, they neglected the fire duty and broke their chastity vow, leading to their burial inside the complex.
5. Home to Several Ancient Ruins Like Caesar's Temple, Arch of Titus, etc.
Different emperors added structures like the Temple of Vesta, Temple of Saturn, Arch of Titus, Rostra, Temple of Castor and Pollux and the Senate House, creating layers of artefacts and ruins. These remnants are what draws scores of tourists, as they are standing testaments of previous architectural and engineering might.
6. The Largest Room at the Forum is Basilica of Maxentius
Head to the Basilica of Maxentius, built by Emperor Maxentius and completed by Constantine around 2,000 years ago, to see the Roman Forum's largest structure. Visitors can view the remains of its north aisle, featuring three concrete domes with octagonal ceiling panels. It served various functions, including law courts, business offices, and government premises.
7. The Temple of Saturn is Among Rome’s Oldest Temples
The Temple of Saturn, a revered ancient structure in the Roman Forum, dates back to 497 BC, making it one of the oldest temples in Rome. Dedicated to Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture and wealth, it held significant cultural and religious importance. The temple's iconic eight surviving columns stand as a testament to its former grandeur. Historically, it housed the state treasury, symbolizing Rome's prosperity, and featured prominently in various festivals and ceremonies.
8. The Roman Forum is Home to Julius Caesar’s Remains
The Temple of Caesar, also known as Caesar's grave, was built after his assassination in 44 BC. Caesar’s public cremation was quite grand, attracting a large crowd who tossed valuable possessions into the fire, nearly causing a blaze. While the site where he was cremated is now in ruins, you can still leave flowers as a tribute.
9. Arch of Septimius Severus Showcases Roman Conquests and War Victories
The Arch of Septimius Severus, a striking monument in the Roman Forum, was built in AD 203 to commemorate the victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons in Parthia. This triumphal arch stands as a testament to the might of the Roman Empire, adorned with intricate reliefs depicting military campaigns. It is one of the best-preserved structures in the Forum, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and military prowess of ancient Rome.
10. Cicero's decapitated head was displayed in the Rostra
The famous Roman lawyer and orator Cicero was killed by Mark Antony. Antony then went on to display his head and hand at the Rostra, which is inside the Roman Forum, for the public to see. This landmark event was one of many that ushered in the advent of the Roman Empire. Therefore, the Roman Forum also frequently served as a spot for public executions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Roman Forum
How old is the Roman Forum?
The Roman Forum is more than 2,500 years old.
When was the Roman Forum built?
The Roman Forum was built between the 7th century BC–AD 608.
What was the Roman Forum used for?
The Roman Forum was used for public processions, elections, religious rituals, etc. in ancient Rome.
How big is the Roman Forum?
The Roman Forum is spread across 4.9 acres.
Who built the Roman Forum?
A single architect cannot be credited with the construction of the Roman Forum. It was modified by various Roman emperors over the centuries.
What are the different Roman Forum buildings?
The Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Janus and the Arch of Tiberius are among the most popular Roman Forum buildings.
What did the Roman Forum look like?
The Roman Forum was a rectangular plaza surrounded by several government buildings at the time.
What is the temple of Castor and Pollux?
The Temple of Castor and Pollux was one of several temples of ancient Rome.
What is the difference between the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill?
The Roman Forum is a plaza while Palatine Hill was a popular hill in ancient Rome. Palatine Hill was also the hill upon which Rome was founded.
What are the different kinds of ruins found in the Roman Forum?
The Roman Forum is home to ruins like Tabularium, the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vespasian and Titus, and the Arch of Septimius Severus.
