Foro Romano

The Foro Romano in Rome is a historic site featuring ancient ruins that once served as the centre of Roman public life.

The Roman Forum, or Forum Romanum, is one of the most important and fascinating archaeological sites in the world. Located between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills, it was the center of political, social, and economic life in ancient Rome. Walking through the Roman Forum means traveling back in time, exploring the remains of temples, basilicas, arches, and other monuments that tell stories of power, triumph, and everyday life. The site offers an unparalleled opportunity to understand how the Roman Empire functioned and evolved over the centuries, and to feel the pulse of the ancient city that once ruled the known world.

How to get there

Foro Romano, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

History

The Roman Forum began to take shape in the 7th century BC and quickly became the center of public life in Rome. It served as a marketplace, a political hub, and a site for religious ceremonies. Over the centuries, many of Rome’s most iconic buildings were erected here, such as the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the Basilica of Maxentius. As the Roman Empire expanded, the Forum grew in size and importance, reflecting the city’s transformation into a vast empire. With the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Forum fell into decline, becoming a pasture known as the “Campo Vaccino” in the Middle Ages. However, excavations in the 19th and 20th centuries brought the ancient structures back to light, revealing the grandeur of the Roman civilization.

Reviews

"Walking through the Roman Forum was an unforgettable experience! You can truly feel the weight of history around you, imagining the political debates, public speeches, and bustling markets that once filled this space. The ruins are incredibly well-preserved, and there are plenty of signs and information boards to help you understand what you're looking at. Definitely a must-see in Rome!" – Sophia, London

"The Roman Forum exceeded all my expectations. It's like stepping into another world; every corner is filled with fascinating ruins and stories. I loved exploring the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, the House of the Vestals, and seeing the original Via Sacra. It’s one of those places where you can spend hours and still discover something new." – Miguel, Barcelona

"An amazing site! The Roman Forum is a treasure trove of ancient history. We took a guided tour, which was great because the guide provided so much context about the buildings and their significance. The views of the Forum from the Palatine Hill were stunning, too. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Rome!" – Emily, Sydney

Useful information

Opening Hours: The Roman Forum is generally open from 9:00 am to one hour before sunset. Hours may vary depending on the season, so it’s best to check the official website.
Tickets: Entrance to the Roman Forum is included in the combined ticket with the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
How to Get There: The Roman Forum is located near the Colosseum. The nearest metro station is “Colosseo” (Line B), and it is easily accessible on foot from the main areas of Rome.
Services: The site offers restrooms, a visitor information point, and several drinking fountains.

Tips

Take a Guided Tour:
To fully appreciate the rich history of the Roman Forum, consider joining a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide can provide in-depth stories and insights into the ruins, helping you to visualize what this area looked like during its peak.

Visit Early in the Morning or Late Afternoon:
The Roman Forum can become crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon will help you avoid the crowds and the midday heat, allowing you to explore the site more comfortably.

Wear Comfortable Shoes and Bring a Hat:
The Roman Forum covers a large area with uneven terrain, including cobblestone paths and steps. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a hat or sun protection, especially in the summer months, as there is limited shade on-site.