From gatherings considered taboo in today’s standards to a centralized meeting place for ancient ceremonies and business deals , the Roman Forum and the Baths of Diocletian are included in an impressive list of popular Roman attractions.
Roman Forum
Many tourists plan to browse the extensive complex comprised of ruined temples, basilicas, and fascinating arches. During ancient Roman days, the people gathered to conduct business, socialize, finish legal transactions, and hold ceremonial rituals. During the 2nd century BC, the food stalls and brothels were removed. The best view of the Roman Forum is to walk up Capitoline Hill, which is located behind the museums. To truly enjoy the attraction, allow yourself at least two hours.
Additional details regarding the Roman Forum include:
6 Facts , Roman Forum
1. The Roman Forum is situated between the Palatine Hill and the Capitoline Hill.
2. In the past, the Roman Forum was either referred to as the “Forum Magnum” or more simply , ” the Forum.”
3. If you wanted to see some of the oldest and most significant structures of the ancient city , the Forum offers plenty of attractions, including the surrounding complex of the Vestal virgins.
4. A couple of temples to put on your list when visiting the Roman Forum include the Temple of Saturn (located at the western end and known as the oldest structure associated with the Forum) and Temple of Concord (dedicated to the goddess Concordia).
5. Thanks to the rewards of the Gallic War, Julius Caesar dedicated the Basilica Julia in 46 BC , a public arena used for meetings and other official business during the early Roman Empire.
6. The Arch of Augustus commemorates the battle of Actium against Anthony and Cleopatra, which took place in 31 BC.
The Baths of Diocletian
During ancient days, it was customary to partake in a visit to a Roman bath. At one time, the largest public gathering spot of its kind was the Baths of Diocletian, which stretched across 32 acres. The majority of the original structure was destroyed with the remains of the baths stored in the National Roman Museum for safekeeping. Inside the bath, a handful of painted tombs have been relocated and reconstructed. As a tourist, the baths are open for visitors every day except for Mondays.
Other ancient baths in Rome include:
· Baths of Agrippa , It was Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa responsible for building the baths, which are believed to be some of the first. In 80 AD, a fire damaged a great deal of the structure, where it underwent restoration and enjoyed an expansion afterwards.
· Baths of Caracalla , Covering around 13 hectares, this bath complex was built between 212 AD and 216 during the days where Emperor Caracalla ruled.
· Baths of Trajan , The construction for this bath began in 104 AD and was received dedication in 109. The southern side of the Oppian Hill served as the site of this bath, which was commissioned by Emperor Trajan.
· Baths of Constantine , Representing the last of the great baths of Rome, this public bathing complex stood on Quirnal Hill and was built by Constantine I , most likely before 315.