Similar to a town square, a forum was the main area in an ancient city or town.

In the ancient city of Rome, the Forum was the central area of business affairs and judicial hearings. It also served as an assembly place for the people, as well as a place to practice their faith. Located near Palatine hill, the centermost Roman hill, the Forum also housed the Old Republic, which is where both the Roman Senate and Republican government initiated.

The Roman Forum contained some of the oldest buildings and structures of the city. Established as early as the 7th century BCE these buildings includes the Regia (the residence of the kings of Rome), the Temple of Saturn (god of agriculture), the Temple of Venus (goddess of love), and the Temple of Caesar.

In ancient times, the Forum became the economic center of activity for Rome. In modern times, it remains a fascinating and popular tourist site through which visitor can discover the past.

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Text: Clare Fogerty; Image: Adam Sewall