The Roman Forum is an iconic and historically significant landmark in Rome. It is a rectangular plaza surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city. The Forum served as a public space for political, religious, and commercial activities in Ancient Rome. It was the center of the Roman Republic and later the Roman Empire. This article will explore the history and model of the Roman Forum.
History of the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was constructed around 500 BC as a flat open space that served as a market, meeting place, and center for religious ceremonies. As the Roman Republic grew in power and wealth, so did the Forum. The first buildings to be constructed were the Tabularium and the Temple of Saturn. Over time, more temples, basilicas, and government buildings were added, including the Temple of Vesta, the Rostra, and the Arch of Titus. By the time of the Roman Empire, the Forum was the center of government and religion.
Model of the Roman Forum
The model of the Roman Forum is a representation of the ancient plaza and its surrounding buildings. The model is usually made of metal, plastic, or wood, and can be found in museums, libraries, and educational institutions. The model is usually to scale, showing the size and shape of the Forum and its buildings. It also shows the Forum’s various levels and its many features, such as its columns, stairs, and arches.
Features of the Model
The model of the Roman Forum usually includes the following features:
- The Tabularium, the oldest building in the Forum, is a two-story structure that housed the archives of the Roman Republic.
- The Temple of Saturn is a temple dedicated to the god Saturn. It is the most well-preserved building in the Forum.
- The Temple of Vesta is a circular temple dedicated to the goddess Vesta, the goddess of the hearth. It is the smallest temple in the Forum.
- The Rostra is a platform used by Roman politicians to make speeches to the public. It is located at the south end of the Forum.
- The Arch of Titus is an archway built to commemorate the victory of Titus in the Jewish War. It is located at the north end of the Forum.
Significance of the Model
The model of the Roman Forum is a valuable educational tool. It is a visual representation of the Forum that helps students learn about its history and architecture. The model also serves as a reminder of the Forum’s importance in Roman society and its role in the development of Western civilization.