Dear Young, we couldn’t help but do an article on one of the most important archaeological sites of the Roman city, we also add among the most beautiful because you will discover for yourself how many emotions this little journey into ancient history will give you!
Truly not to be missed!
THE IMPERIAL FORUMS
Rome is a city that breathes history. Every corner of the Italian capital exudes millennia of human events, but few areas are able to convey the grandeur and splendor of imperial Rome like the Imperial Forums.
A walk through these ancient remains catapults you into an era of emperors and large urban planning projects that marked the political and social heart of the Roman Empire.
In this article we will explore not only the history of the Imperial Forums, but also how to best organize your visit, to have a complete and unforgettable experience.
THE GREAT DREAM OF THE IMPERIAL FORUMS
The Imperial Forums are a series of monumental squares built between 46 BC. and 113 AD. by the Roman emperors to expand the public and political space of the Roman Forum, already the nerve center of city life.
The emperors used these large squares as a showcase for their power and greatness, but also to provide Rome with new spaces intended for political, administrative and commercial life.
- Forum of Caesar (46 BC): The first of these forums was commissioned by Julius Caesar. In addition to building a new seat for the Senate, he also built the Temple of Venus Genetrix.
- Forum of Augustus (2 BC): After Caesar, Octavian Augustus wanted to build a space dedicated to the glories of the past, with a temple dedicated to Mars Ultor, the god of war.
- Forum of Nerva and Forum of Vespasian: Built later, these forums reflect the consolidation of imperial Rome and the desire to leave an eternal mark on the capital.
- Trajan’s Forum (113 AD): The largest and most monumental of all, wanted by the emperor Trajan to celebrate his victories in the Dacian wars. Dominated by the famous Trajan’s Column, it is a majestic work of sculptural narration that recounts the battles and triumphs of the emperor.
Walking through the Imperial Forums offers you the opportunity to admire these extraordinary archaeological remains, many of which are in a surprising state of conservation, and to imagine life in ancient Rome.
These places were not only spaces of representation and worship, but also places of meeting, debate and political decision-making.
HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR VISIT: Advice from the youth hostel
If you are ready to discover the Imperial Forums in person, here are some practical tips to best plan your visit.
- BOOK YOUR VISIT AND OPENING HOURS
The Imperial Forums can be visited in different ways. One of the most fascinating ways to explore them is through a night visit, which allows you to admire the illuminated ruins, offering a suggestive and unique atmosphere.
Night visits are usually held from April to October, with times that vary depending on the season, so it is always advisable to check on the official website or booking platforms.
For those who prefer to visit the Forum during the day, the opening hours are generally from 8.30am to 7.00pm, with variations during the winter. It is advisable to purchase tickets online in advance, to avoid long queues and guarantee access, especially in the high tourist season months.
- TICKETS AND ACCESS OPTIONS
Standard tickets include combined access to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, along with the Imperial Forums. This solution is perfect for those who want to completely immerse themselves in ancient Rome. If you want a more in-depth experience, there are also thematic guided tours, such as archaeological tours or a focus on Roman political and social life.
For families and groups, some operators offer special tours that include interactive activities and guides expert in engaging the little ones, turning the visit into an educational adventure.
If you are a young person under the age of 26 you have a discount on the ticket price.
Not only that, if you manage to insert yourself into a group of up to 10 people, you and the others will have a discount on the ticket price.
Click here to purchase tickets.
- HOW TO REACH THE IMPERIAL FORUMS
The Imperial Forums are located in the heart of Rome, a stone’s throw from the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia, easily reachable by public transport.
The closest metro station is Colosseo (Line B). From here, you can start the walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali, which will lead you directly to the entrance.
We leave you here a small table that indicates the time and prices:
- PRACTICAL TIPS FOR LIVING THE EXPERIENCE WELL
Clothing: Rome can be very hot during the summer, so bring water, wear light clothing and comfortable shoes, as the area is large and takes a long time to explore entirely on foot.
Guide or audio guide: To fully understand the historical complexity of the Imperial Forums, I recommend booking an expert guide or renting an audio guide. The wealth of architectural and historical detail that characterizes each individual hole is incredible, and a guide will allow you to fully appreciate every hidden corner.
Photography: The Fori Imperiali area is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Every corner offers unique perspectives, with the Colosseum in the background or Trajan’s Column standing majestically among the remains. If you are a fan of night photography, evening visits offer truly unique photographic opportunities.
- SPECIAL EVENTS AND TEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS
Keep an eye on the events calendar. During the year, light and sound shows are often organised, which tell the story of the Imperial Forums through evocative projections. Temporary exhibitions and historical re-enactments can also be part of your visit experience, bringing you even closer to the life of ancient Rome.
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THE TRIP TO THE HEART OF ROME, WHICH REMAINS IN THE HEART
Visiting the Imperial Forums is like taking a step back in time, walking among the vestiges of an empire that has left an indelible mark on world history.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a photographer looking for spectacular views or a simple tourist curious to learn about the wonders of ancient Rome, the Imperial Forums will fascinate you.
Organize your visit as best as possible to make the most of this experience: book tickets online, consider an expert guide and, if you can, treat yourself to a night visit to enjoy an even more magical show. No matter how many times you visit Rome, the Imperial Forums will surprise you with something new every time.
The photos we took for you are just to give you a glimpse!
Have a safe journey into the heart of history, Young!