1 – The Mamertine or Tullianum Prison
The Mamertine or Tullianum Prison is an ancient prison located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It is believed to have been built in the 7th century BC and was used to hold prisoners of war, including the famous enemies of Rome, Jugurtha and Vercingetorix. The prison consists of two underground chambers, one on top of the other, with a small opening at the top for ventilation and light. It was considered one of the most terrible prisons of ancient times due to its harsh conditions, lack of sanitation, and the cruel treatment of its inmates. The lower chamber, known as the Tullianum, was used to hold prisoners before their execution, and it is said that many were left to die of starvation or suffocation. The prison is now a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome.

2 – The Temple of Saturn
The Temple of Saturn is an ancient Roman temple located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 5th century BC and was dedicated to the Roman god Saturn, who was revered as the god of agriculture and harvest. The temple was one of the oldest and most important in Rome, and it played a significant role in the religious and civic life of the city. The temple had a rectangular shape, with a raised platform at one end and a row of eight Ionic columns at the front. The interior of the temple was decorated with fine marble and stucco, and it housed a large statue of Saturn. The temple was used for various purposes throughout history, including as a treasury and a place for storing state archives. Today, only a few columns and the podium of the Temple of Saturn remain standing, but they still provide a glimpse into the architectural and religious history of ancient Rome. The ruins of the temple are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome.

3 – The Arch of Septimius Severus
The Arch of Septimius Severus is a triumphal arch located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in AD 203 to commemorate the military victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta. The arch stands at the northwest end of the Forum, and it is made of white marble and decorated with reliefs depicting scenes from the wars against the Parthians and the Arabs. The central archway is flanked by two smaller arches, and the attic bears inscriptions honoring the emperor and his sons. The arch is notable for its size and grandeur, and it has survived relatively intact over the centuries, despite suffering damage from earthquakes and fires. Today, the Arch of Septimius Severus remains a significant landmark in Rome and a popular tourist attraction.

4 – Column of Phocas
The Column of Phocas is a Roman triumphal column located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was erected in AD 608 in honor of the Byzantine Emperor Phocas, who had donated the Pantheon to the Pope. The column is made of white marble and stands approximately 13 meters tall, including its base and capital. The column is decorated with reliefs depicting scenes from the reign of Phocas, including his military victories and his donation of the Pantheon. The column is topped with a bronze statue of Phocas, which has since been replaced with a statue of Saint Peter. The Column of Phocas is the last monument to have been erected in the Roman Forum and is one of the few surviving examples of medieval Roman art and architecture. Today, the column remains a popular tourist attraction and a significant historical landmark in Rome.

5 – Curia
The Curia Julia, or simply the Curia, is an ancient building located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in 44 BC as a meeting place for the Roman Senate and was named after Julius Caesar. The Curia has been rebuilt and restored multiple times throughout history, with the current building dating back to the 3rd century AD. The building is made of brick and marble and has a rectangular shape with a raised apse at one end. The interior is decorated with intricate carvings and frescoes, including a series of portraits of Roman emperors. The Curia was used as a meeting place for the Roman Senate until the 7th century AD, after which it was converted into a church and later a granary. Today, the Curia is a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the political and social life of ancient Rome.

6 – Basilica Giulia (Basilica Iulia)
The Basilica Giulia, also known as the Basilica Iulia, is an ancient Roman building located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built by Julius Caesar in 46 BC as a place for conducting legal and commercial affairs. The Basilica has a rectangular shape, measuring approximately 100 meters in length and 30 meters in width, and it is made of brick and concrete. The building has two levels, with a row of columns and arches separating them, and it was originally covered by a wooden roof. The interior of the Basilica was decorated with marble and stucco, and it was known for its grandeur and elegance. The Basilica Giulia was later restored and expanded by the Emperor Augustus and was used for various purposes throughout history, including as a court, a market, and a church. Today, the Basilica Giulia is a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing insights into the architecture and public life of ancient Rome.

7 – Santa Maria Antiqua
Santa Maria Antiqua is an early Christian church located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It is believed to have been built in the 5th or 6th century AD and is one of the oldest churches in Rome. The church is notable for its well-preserved frescoes, which date back to the 8th and 9th centuries AD and represent a unique blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Christian art. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints and martyrs, and are considered some of the finest examples of early medieval art in Italy. Santa Maria Antiqua was abandoned in the 9th century AD after an earthquake, and it remained buried under layers of debris until it was rediscovered in the 20th century. Today, the church is a significant archaeological site in Rome and a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its ancient art and architecture.

8 – Temple of Castro and Pollux
The Temple of Castor and Pollux, also known as the Temple of Dioscuri, is an ancient temple located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 5th century BC in honor of the twin brothers Castor and Pollux, who were revered as gods by the Romans. The temple was originally made of wood and was later rebuilt in stone in the 1st century AD. The temple is peristyle in style, with eight Corinthian columns at the front and a rectangular cella in the back. The interior of the temple was decorated with fine marble and bronze sculptures, including a statue of the two brothers on horseback. The temple was used for various purposes throughout history, including as a meeting place for the Roman Senate and as a church during the Middle Ages. Today, the Temple of Castor and Pollux is a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient Rome.

9 – Basilica Aemilia
The Basilica Aemilia, also known as the Basilica of Aemilius, was an ancient Roman building located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in 179 BC by the Roman censor, Marcus Aemilius Lepidus, and was one of the largest basilicas in Rome. The building had a rectangular shape, with a central nave and two side aisles, and was supported by a row of Corinthian columns. The interior of the basilica was decorated with fine marble and stucco, and it was known for its grandeur and elegance. The Basilica Aemilia was used for various purposes throughout history, including as a courthouse and a marketplace. The building was damaged and rebuilt several times over the centuries, with the final reconstruction taking place in the 5th century AD. Today, only a few columns and arches of the Basilica Aemilia remain standing, but they still provide a glimpse into the architecture and public life of ancient Rome. The ruins of the basilica are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome.

10 – Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina is an ancient Roman temple located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 2nd century AD and was dedicated to the Roman emperor Antoninus Pius and his wife, Faustina the Elder, after their deaths. The temple is peristyle in style, with eight Corinthian columns at the front and a rectangular cella in the back. The interior of the temple was decorated with fine marble and stucco, and it housed a large statue of the deified emperors. The temple was later converted into a church, and a bell tower was added to the structure in the Middle Ages. Today, the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina is a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the religious and cultural life of ancient Rome.

11 – Regia
The Regia was an ancient Roman building located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was originally built in the 8th century BC as the residence of the Roman kings, and later served as the office of the Pontifex Maximus, the highest priest in ancient Rome. The Regia was rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries, with the final reconstruction taking place in the 1st century BC. The building had a rectangular shape, with a central courtyard and rooms on either side. The interior of the Regia was decorated with fine marble and stucco, and it housed important religious and political artifacts, including the sacred hearth of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth and home. The Regia was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, and today only a few ruins of the building remain standing. The ruins of the Regia are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the religious and political life of ancient Rome.

12 – House of Vestals
The House of the Vestals was an ancient Roman residence located near the Roman Forum in Rome, Italy. It was the home of the Vestal Virgins, a group of six priestesses who were responsible for maintaining the sacred fire of Vesta, the goddess of the hearth and home. The house was built in the 3rd century BC and consisted of several buildings arranged around a central courtyard. The interior of the house was decorated with fine marble and mosaics, and it housed a variety of rooms for the Vestal Virgins, including living quarters, dining rooms, and a temple dedicated to Vesta. The Vestal Virgins were respected and revered in ancient Rome, and the House of the Vestals was considered a sacred place. The house was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, with the final reconstruction taking place in the 2nd century AD. Today, the ruins of the House of the Vestals are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the religious and social life of ancient Rome.

13 – Basilica of Maxentius
The Basilica of Maxentius, also known as the Basilica Nova, is an ancient Roman building located in the Roman Forum, in Rome, Italy. It was built in the early 4th century AD by the Roman emperor Maxentius, and was one of the largest buildings in the Forum at the time. The basilica had a rectangular shape, with a large central nave and two side aisles. The interior of the building was decorated with fine marble and stucco, and it housed several large statues, including one of Constantine the Great, who later completed the building. The Basilica of Maxentius was used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a law court and a marketplace. Today, only a few ruins of the basilica remain standing, including the massive vaulted ceiling and some of the walls. The ruins of the Basilica of Maxentius are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of ancient Rome.

14 – Arch of Titus
The Arch of Titus is an ancient Roman triumphal arch located on the Via Sacra in the Roman Forum, Rome, Italy. It was built in the 1st century AD and was dedicated to the Roman emperor Titus to commemorate his victories in the Jewish War. The arch has a single archway and is made of white marble with relief sculptures depicting scenes from the Jewish War, including the spoils of the Temple of Jerusalem being carried in triumph by Roman soldiers. The Arch of Titus is considered a significant work of Roman art and architecture, and it has influenced the design of many later triumphal arches, including the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Today, the Arch of Titus is a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the military and cultural history of ancient Rome.

15 – Antiquarium Forense
The Antiquarium Forense is an archaeological museum located in the Roman Forum in Rome, Italy. It was opened in the early 20th century and houses a large collection of artifacts and artworks from ancient Rome, including statues, inscriptions, and architectural fragments. The museum is housed in the ancient Tabularium building, which was originally built in the 1st century BC as a records office and archive for the Roman Republic. The Tabularium was later used as a military headquarters and as a storage facility for the city’s archives. Today, the Antiquarium Forense provides a glimpse into the daily life and culture of ancient Rome, with exhibits focusing on the social, economic, and political aspects of Roman society. The museum is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and learn about the fascinating history of one of the world’s most influential civilizations.

16 – Temple of Venus and Rome
The Temple of Venus and Rome is an ancient Roman temple located in the east end of the Roman Forum in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, who dedicated it to the goddesses Venus and Roma. The temple was designed by the famous Roman architect Apollodorus of Damascus and was the largest temple in ancient Rome. The temple had two main entrances, one facing the Colosseum and the other facing the Forum. The interior of the temple was lavishly decorated with fine marble and sculptures, and it housed a large statue of the goddess Venus. The Temple of Venus and Rome was damaged several times over the centuries and was eventually converted into a church in the 7th century AD. Today, only a few ruins of the temple remain standing, including the massive apse and some of the walls. The ruins of the Temple of Venus and Rome are a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome, providing a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of ancient Rome.

17 – Colosseum
The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is an ancient Roman amphitheatre located in the center of Rome, Italy. It was built in the 1st century AD and is considered one of the greatest architectural and engineering achievements of ancient Rome. The Colosseum was originally used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as mock sea battles and animal hunts. It was capable of seating up to 50,000 spectators, and its design allowed for efficient circulation of crowds and quick evacuation in case of emergency.
The Colosseum is made of travertine and concrete and is famous for its distinctive elliptical shape and tiered seating. Its outer walls are decorated with arches, columns, and sculptures, including the famous statue of Nero, which was later converted into a statue of the sun god. The Colosseum was used for public entertainment for centuries but eventually fell into disrepair and was partially dismantled for its building materials. However, it has since been restored and is now a popular tourist attraction and a significant archaeological site in Rome. The Colosseum serves as a symbol of the grandeur and power of ancient Rome and remains one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

18 – Domus Aurea
The Domus Aurea, which means “Golden House” in Latin, is an ancient Roman palace located in the center of Rome, Italy. It was built by the Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD after the Great Fire of Rome and was designed to be a lavish and opulent palace complex that included extensive gardens, fountains, and an artificial lake.
The palace was renowned for its extravagant decorations, including frescoes, mosaics, and precious gems and metals. The walls and ceilings were covered in gold leaf, and the floors were made of colorful marble and decorated with intricate patterns. The Domus Aurea was also famous for its large vaulted spaces, which were supported by innovative engineering techniques such as concrete and brick arches.
After Nero’s death, the palace was abandoned and eventually buried under layers of soil and rubble. It was rediscovered in the 15th century and has been the subject of many excavations and restorations since then. Today, visitors can tour the Domus Aurea and see its impressive architectural and artistic features, which have inspired many artists and architects throughout the centuries.

19 – Meta Sudans
The Meta Sudans was an ancient Roman fountain located in the Roman Forum in Rome, Italy. It was built in the 1st century AD as part of the celebrations for the completion of the nearby Colosseum, and its name means “sweating turning point” in Latin. The fountain was shaped like a large cone and was covered with white marble. Water flowed down the sides of the cone, creating a mist that was said to cool the air and refresh visitors to the Forum. The Meta Sudans was a popular gathering place for people to socialize and cool off during the hot summer months. However, over time the fountain fell into disrepair and was eventually demolished in the 1930s during the construction of the Via dei Fori Imperiali. Today, only a few ruins of the Meta Sudans remain standing, but its memory lives on as a symbol of the grandeur and innovation of ancient Roman engineering and architecture.

20 – Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is an ancient Roman triumphal arch located in Rome, Italy. It was built in 315 AD to commemorate the victory of Emperor Constantine I over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. The arch is located near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum and is considered one of the most important monuments of ancient Rome.
The arch is made of marble and stands 21 meters tall and 25.7 meters wide. Its design was influenced by earlier Roman arches, including the Arch of Titus and the Arch of Septimius Severus. The arch is decorated with sculptural reliefs and friezes that depict scenes from Constantine’s military campaigns, including the famous battle of Milvian Bridge. The arch also features sculptures and decorations that were taken from earlier Roman monuments, such as the Arch of Trajan and the Temple of Venus and Rome.
The Arch of Constantine is an important symbol of the transition from ancient Rome to the Christian era, as Constantine was the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. The arch has been a popular tourist attraction since ancient times and continues to be an important landmark in Rome today.