Why the
Roman Forum
is special

It was the political, religious and commercial center of ancient Rome. Though ruins are all that remain, there's enough to conjure up in our minds the mighty temples, basilicas and triumphal arches that stood in the glory days of the Caesars.

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Roman Forum
tips & insights

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What is the definition
of a Roman forum?

A forum is an open public space. There were many other ancient forums in Rome and beyond. However, the Roman Forum was the classiest.

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How the
Roman Forum evolved

It sprang modestly from a marsh around 700 BC. It grew and reached its apogee during the reign of Augustus (27 BC to 14 AD). It became a showcase for Rome's supremacy.

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Major structures

From a visitor's perspective, the top seven are:

Arch of Severus
Arch of Titus
Temple of Attoninus & Faustina
Temple of Pastor & Pollux
Temple of Saturn
Temple of Vesta
Temple of Vespasian

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There were many
historic days at
the Roman Forum

Yes. They include triumphant marches by returning armies. And there was the infamous Ides of March when Julius Caesar was assassinated.

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Site's deterioration

When the Roman Empire crumbled, the forum deteriorated, was ransacked by invaders, and was cannibalized for its marble for use in construction elsewhere. By the middle ages, the ruins were smothered with accumulated dirt - and were largely forgotten.

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When did the
restoration begin?

Excavation and reassembling began in the 1800s. And those processes continue today.

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Best way to visualize
the Roman Forum
in its heyday

Buy a quality illustrated printed visual map or guide illustrating what the Roman Forum looked like in it zenith. Knowing what the structures once looked like as you explore the Roman Forum will immensely enhance your appreciation of this wonder.

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When to go
to Rome

See my at-a-glance charts:

Weather and tourist-crowd issues

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candid country, region
and other travel guides
Click links for tips & insights

©2009 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications