View of the Augustus Forum in Rome with the ruins of the Mars Ultor Temple

Forum Of Augustus

Forum of Augustus Rome: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Forum of Augustus, inaugurated in 2 BC, stands at the heart of Rome as a testament to the city’s imperial ambition, architectural mastery, and political innovation. Commissioned by Rome’s first emperor, Augustus, the forum was designed not only to alleviate the overcrowding of the original Roman Forum but also to serve as a monumental stage for imperial propaganda. Its centerpiece, the Temple of Mars Ultor, commemorates Augustus’s vow before the Battle of Philippi and symbolizes the emperor’s role as the avenger of Julius Caesar and guardian of Rome’s peace. Today, the forum offers a rich visitor experience enhanced by modern interpretive tools, immersive light shows, and proximity to other iconic Roman landmarks (visit-colosseum-rome.com, thetravel.com, colosseo.it).

Reconstruction of a frieze in the Augustus Forum in Rome

View of Foro di Augusto with ancient Roman ruins under blue sky

Origins and Purpose of the Forum of Augustus
Construction Timeline and Architectural Features
Political and Symbolic Significance
Visiting the Forum of Augustus: Hours, Tickets, and Tips
Later History and Decline
Legacy and Modern-Day Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Explore More and Stay Connected

Origins and Purpose of the Forum of Augustus

Conceived by Augustus after his victory at the Battle of Philippi in 42 BC, the Forum of Augustus was built to both honor his vow to Mars Ultor (“Mars the Avenger”) and to provide a new civic space for Rome. The forum addressed the administrative congestion of the original Roman Forum and reinforced Augustus’s legitimacy by linking him to Rome’s legendary founders and divine lineage (visit-colosseum-rome.com, thetravel.com).

Construction Timeline and Architectural Features

Construction began shortly after 42 BC, with the forum inaugurated in 2 BC, although some elements remained unfinished. The rectangular forum measured about 120 by 120 meters, centered around the grand Temple of Mars Ultor with its towering columns and marble podium. The forum was richly adorned with colored marbles, statues, and decorative reliefs, and was bordered by porticoes terminating in semicircular exedrae. A massive firewall separated the forum from the surrounding Subura district, providing both protection and symbolic order (finestresullarte.info, thetravel.com).

Political and Symbolic Significance

Beyond its civic functions, the Forum of Augustus was a carefully orchestrated display of imperial ideology. Statues of Augustus, legendary ancestors such as Aeneas and Romulus, and prominent military leaders filled the porticoes and exedrae, visually linking Augustus to Rome’s mythic and historical past. The forum’s iconography celebrated themes of just war, divine favor, and the Pax Romana—a testament to Augustus’s role as restorer of peace and order (visit-colosseum-rome.com, thetravel.com).

Visiting the Forum of Augustus: Hours, Tickets, and Tips

Opening Hours

The Forum of Augustus is open daily from 9:00 AM, with closing times varying by season (typically between 4:30 PM in winter and 7:15 PM in summer; last entry is one hour before closing). Always check official websites before planning your visit for current hours (colosseo.it, tickets-rome.com).

Tickets and Entry

Admission is included in the combined ticket with the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. As of June 2025, adult tickets are €18, with €2 rates for EU citizens aged 18–25, and free entry for children under 18. Purchase tickets online in advance, as on-site sales are no longer available. Tickets are valid for 24 hours after first entry but do not allow re-entry to the same site (museos.com, ticketing.colosseo.it, nomadepicureans.com).

Accessibility

The site is partially accessible, with uneven ancient paving and steps that may challenge those with mobility issues. Informational signage is provided in Italian and English. For additional support, contact visitor services ahead of your visit (museos.com).

Travel Tips

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and intense heat.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sun protection.
Combine your visit with neighboring sites: Forum of Caesar, Forum of Trajan, Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Palatine Hill.
Use public transport, as parking is limited in the area.
Download the “MyColosseum” app for maps and audio guides (colosseo.it).

Highlights of the Forum of Augustus

Temple of Mars Ultor

The forum’s focal point, the Temple of Mars Ultor, features a surviving podium and three towering Corinthian columns. The temple commemorated Augustus’s victory at Philippi and symbolized his role as avenger and restorer of Rome (en.wikipedia.org).

Exedrae and Statuary

The forum’s exedrae once displayed statues of Rome’s legendary figures and Augustus’s ancestors, each with inscriptions of their deeds. This visual narrative reinforced Augustus’s divine lineage and political legitimacy (fori-imperiali.info).

Political Functions

The forum held Senate meetings on war and peace, religious rituals, and military triumphs. Generals deposited standards and participated in state ceremonies here, making the site central to Roman political life (fori-imperiali.info).

Special Experience: Viaggio nei Fori Light Show

During summer, the “Viaggio nei Fori” multimedia light show recreates the forum’s original splendor through projections and narration. Tickets are about €15–25, and the show is held nightly from June to early October (mamalovesrome.com).

Later History and Decline

The forum’s prominence diminished after the construction of Trajan’s Forum in 112 AD. Over centuries, structures were dismantled and the area repurposed; medieval and Renaissance buildings layered atop ancient ruins. Modern excavations have revealed significant remains, and ongoing conservation ensures its preservation (finestresullarte.info).

Legacy and Modern-Day Relevance

The Forum of Augustus influenced the design of subsequent imperial fora and remains a powerful symbol of Rome’s architectural and political heritage. It hosts cultural events and educational programs and is a highlight of Rome’s archaeological landscape (myromepass.com).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Forum of Augustus opening hours?
A: Open daily from 9:00 AM; closing times vary by season. Last entry is typically one hour before closing.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: €18 for adults, €2 for EU citizens aged 18–25, free for children under 18. Tickets must be purchased online.

Q: Is the Forum of Augustus wheelchair accessible?
A: The site is partially accessible, but uneven paving and steps may present challenges.

Q: Can I buy tickets on-site?
A: No, all tickets must be purchased online in advance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, specialized guided tours can be booked for a more in-depth visit.

Q: Can I photograph the site?
A: Photography is permitted for personal use; drones are prohibited.

Practical Advice and Visitor Conduct

Hydrate and protect yourself from the sun—the site has limited shade.
Do not climb on ruins or remove materials.
No food or drink is allowed in the archaeological area.
Be prepared for security checks similar to airport procedures.

Explore More and Stay Connected

Enhance your visit with the “MyColosseum” app, book a guided tour, or experience the Viaggio nei Fori light show. Combine your exploration of the Forum of Augustus with adjacent sites for a comprehensive journey through Rome’s ancient heart. For ongoing updates, travel tips, and in-depth articles, follow us on social media and check our recommended resources.

Summary and Final Recommendations

The Forum of Augustus is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, offering a window into the grandeur and complexity of ancient Rome. Careful planning—checking hours, booking tickets in advance, and considering guided tours or multimedia experiences—will maximize your visit. Exploring the forum alongside neighboring sites like the Roman Forum and Colosseum further enriches your understanding of Rome’s imperial legacy (nomadepicureans.com, museos.com, myromepass.com).