Forum Romanum

In its early days, the area between the Capitoline and Palatine Hills in Rome was a marshy valley, drained in the 6th century BC with the construction of the legendary Cloaca Maxima sewer system. From then on, the Forum gradually became the centre of public life. It housed the most important temples, such as the home of the Vestal Virgins, the senators debated in the Curia, and public speeches were delivered to the people from the Rostra (speaker's platform).

After the fall of the empire, the area fell into ruin, and during the Middle Ages, it was mockingly called the "Campo Vaccino" or cow pasture, with its buildings quarried for stone to construct Renaissance palaces. Systematic excavations, which began in the 19th century, uncovered the monumental city structure that we can still admire today.

While exploring the Forum, make sure to focus on the following key landmarks:

• Arch of Titus: A monument commemorating the victory over Jerusalem, with reliefs that still vividly depict the Roman army's triumphal procession.

• Curia Julia: The former meeting hall of the Roman Senate. It is one of the best-preserved buildings, thanks to its conversion into a church during the Middle Ages.

• Temple of Vesta and the House of the Vestals: The residence of the guardians of the sacred fire, symbolising the continuity and spiritual protection of the Roman state.

• Temple of Antoninus and Faustina: A striking example of historical layering, where ancient columns were incorporated into a Baroque church.

Visiting the Roman Forum comes with a great responsibility for travellers, as it is an open archaeological park exposed to the elements.

• Slow Tourism: Don’t rush through the Forum. Embrace a sustainable mindset by dedicating at least 3-4 hours to the visit, and combine it with the Palatine Hill, where lush greenery and pine groves provide a refreshing microclimate amidst the urban heat.

• Soil Protection and Pathways: Stick to the designated paths! The ancient stones and mosaics are extremely sensitive to physical wear. Visitor routes are designed to minimise erosion of the ruins.

• Plastic-Free: There is little shade and no refreshments available within the area, but numerous nasoni (drinking fountains) can be found. Bring a refillable water bottle to avoid unnecessary waste amidst the historic walls.

• Digital Guides: Instead of paper maps and brochures, use downloadable apps or audio guides to access information waste-free.

Visiting the Roman Forum is usually combined with the Colosseum and Palatine Hill on a single ticket. It’s worth starting at the Forum entrance (via Via dei Fori Imperiali), where queues are often shorter than at the Colosseum.

• Official Ticket Purchase:  colosseo.it