travertine roman forum souvenirs

The Roman Forum: The Heart of Ancient Rome Built on Travertine

The Roman Forum, known as Forum Romanum in Latin, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Once the bustling heart of ancient Rome, it was the center of political, commercial, and social life for centuries. The Forum’s grand temples, arches, and public buildings were constructed using materials that have stood the test of time, with travertine stone playing a crucial role in their longevity.

The History of the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum’s origins date back to the 7th century BC when it began as a simple marketplace. Over the centuries, it evolved into the center of Roman public life, hosting triumphal processions, elections, public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches. It was also the site of some of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions, including the Senate House (Curia), the Temple of Saturn, and the Rostra (a platform for public oratory).

As the Roman Empire expanded, so did the Forum, becoming a sprawling complex of temples, basilicas, and public spaces. By the 4th century AD, the Forum had reached its peak, but it began to decline with the fall of the Roman Empire. Over time, it fell into disrepair, and much of it was buried under debris and sediment. Excavations in the 19th and 20th centuries uncovered the ruins we see today, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.

The Role of Travertine in the Roman Forum

Travertine was extensively used in the construction of many of the Roman Forum’s most iconic structures. This stone, quarried from Tivoli, about 30 kilometers from Rome, was favored for its durability and ease of carving, making it ideal for the grand monuments and buildings that populated the Forum.

Key structures within the Forum made of travertine include:

  • The Arch of Septimius Severus: Erected in 203 AD to commemorate the victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons, this triumphal arch is made primarily of travertine, covered with marble facing. The arch’s travertine core has ensured its survival over the centuries, even as its marble façade has weathered.
  • The Temple of Saturn: One of the oldest sacred sites in Rome, the Temple of Saturn was rebuilt in the 4th century AD using travertine and other materials. Its iconic columns, which still stand today, are made of travertine, providing a link between the ancient structure and modern visitors.
  • The Basilica Julia: Commissioned by Julius Caesar in 46 BC, this large public building was used for legal and other civic proceedings. While much of the basilica has been lost to time, the travertine foundations and remnants of columns give insight into its original grandeur.
  • The Rostra: The Rostra was the platform from which leaders and orators addressed the people. It was originally adorned with the prows of captured ships (hence the name), and its construction featured travertine, providing a durable and prominent stage for public discourse.

Fun Facts and Interesting Details

  • The Sacred Way (Via Sacra): The main road through the Roman Forum, the Via Sacra, was the route taken by victorious generals during their triumphal processions. This road was paved with travertine, making it a literal pathway of history that has been trodden by emperors, soldiers, and citizens alike.
  • Travertine’s Role in Preservation: The use of travertine in the Forum’s construction has contributed significantly to the preservation of its ruins. The stone’s resilience has allowed many structures to survive the ravages of time, war, and natural disasters, providing modern visitors with a glimpse into ancient Rome’s architectural splendor.
  • The Forum’s Decline and Rediscovery: After the fall of the Roman Empire, the Forum was gradually abandoned and became known as the “Campo Vaccino” or “Cow Field.” Much of its stone was quarried for new buildings in medieval and Renaissance Rome. The rediscovery and excavation of the Forum in the 19th century were pivotal in the study of ancient Rome, revealing the travertine foundations and columns that had been buried for centuries.
  • Modern Connections: Today, the Roman Forum is a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. The travertine structures that still stand offer a tangible connection to Rome’s past, reminding us of the city’s enduring legacy.

The Roman Forum: A Legacy of Travertine

The Roman Forum is more than just a collection of ruins; it is a living testament to the history and culture of ancient Rome. The travertine used in its construction has not only withstood the test of time but also continues to inspire awe and admiration in those who visit.

As you wander through the Forum, you are walking in the footsteps of emperors and orators, surrounded by the same travertine stone that has supported the city’s monuments for millennia.

Want to take home a piece of this timeless legacy? Explore our collection of authentic travertine souvenirs inspired by Rome’s ancient architecture at Made of Rome.