Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP SIGHT
ROMAN FORUM
Once the beating heart of the ancient world, a grandiose district of marble-clad
temples, proud basilicas and vibrant public spaces, the Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
is now a collection of impressive but badly labelled ruins that can leave you drained
and confused. But if you can set your imagination going, there's something compelling
about walking in the footsteps of Julius Caesar and other legendary figures of Roman
history.
Originally an Etruscan burial ground, the Forum was first developed in the 7th century
BC and expanded over subsequent centuries to become the centre of the Roman Republic.
In the Middle Ages it was reduced to pasture land and extensively plundered for its marble.
The area was systematically excavated in the 18th and 19th centuries and work continues to
this day.
