Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was the political, religious, and economic center of the Roman Empire — the place where Caesar was murdered, Cicero delivered his speeches, and triumphal processions ended. Today, it is a sprawling field of ruins between the Colosseum and Capitoline Hill, but with a little imagination, the ancient world capital comes to life again.
- Via Sacra: The sacred road where triumphal processions marched to the Capitol. Here walked Julius Caesar, Augustus, and Mark Antony.
- Temple of Saturn: Eight majestic columns — one of Rome's oldest buildings (497 BC). The temple housed the state treasury.
- Arch of Septimius Severus: Three arches of white marble (203 AD), dedicated to victories over the Parthians.
- Curia: The Senate building where the fate of an empire was decided. Surprisingly small and simple.
- Temple of Divus Julius: This is where Caesar's body was cremated. Visitors still lay flowers here today.
Palatine Hill (Palatino)
The Palatine is the hill where Rome was founded (according to legend by Romulus in 753 BC) and where the emperors built their palaces — the word "palace" derives from Palatine. Here you find the ruins of the imperial palaces (Domus Augustana, Domus Flavia), the Farnese Gardens with their spectacular view over the Forum, and the Stadium of Domitian.
Tip: Start at the Palatine (fewer crowds in the morning), enjoy the gardens and the view, and then work your way down to the Forum. The entrance via Via di San Gregorio is often less crowded than the one at the Colosseum.
