The forum used to be the centre of Ancient Rome, surrounded by the most important government buildings, temples, and arches of which, sadly, only fragments are left today.
The complex is a mixture of styles and cultures. Some of the buildings are from the period of the Roman Kingdom (e.g. the Temple of Vesta), some are from the Republic era (e.g. the Curia Julia – the seat of the Senate) and some date back to the Roman Empire period (e.g. the Arch of Titus and Arch of Septimius Severus). Some of the Ancient Roman buildings were later turned into Christian ones (e.g. the Temple of Antoninus Pius).
If you wish to visit both, the Roman Forum and Colosseum, consider buying the tickets (which apply to both) at the Forum since the Colosseum queues are much longer. The tickets you get there also include the Palatine Hill where you can get straight from the Roman Forum and enjoy the spectacular view of Rome from there.
The weather is usually very hot and there is little shade on the Roman Forum, so consider wearing a hat when visiting it. Also, there is a lot of walking involved, so be sure to wear some comfy shoes.
(Last admission one hour before closing.)
Closure on Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25. Opening hours may vary - for more information, please check the official website.
Adults: €12
EU citizens (18-25): €7.50
On-line reservation fee: €2
Free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Two-day combined ticket valid for visit of Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Roman Forum.
Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Forum
Official website http://www.coopculture.it/en/heritage.cfm?id=4
More information http://archeoroma.beniculturali.it/en/archaeological-site/roman-forum-and-palatine-hill
Phone +39 06 399 67 700
Address Via dei Fori Imperiali, 00186 Roma, Italy
Coordinates 41°53'29.994" N 12°29'12.742" E
