About
The Roman Forum sits in the heart of Rome, Italy, in the Lazio region, at Via della Salara Vecchia 5/6. It is also known as the Foro Romano or Forum Romanum. Once the marketplace and centre of political, commercial and judicial life in the city, it is now an open archaeological site of ruins, paths and fragments of stone that invite slow exploration.
What you will see
The site preserves the remains of several important ancient government buildings. Walking among them, you can trace how the open space once served as the everyday hub of Roman life, where business was done, courts were held and public affairs were conducted. Many visitors find it easiest to imagine the forum as a whole rather than as separate monuments, so it helps to read the information panels as you go.
Planning your visit
- Type of visit: an outdoor heritage site, well suited to a leisurely walk with time for reflection.
- Location: in central Rome, within easy reach of other historic districts of the city.
- Contact: you can call +39 06 39967700 for up-to-date details before you go.
- Comfort: wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven, and bring water, especially in warmer months.
Because the forum is a major landmark in the city centre, it pairs naturally with a broader day of sightseeing. Stepping out of the ruins and into the surrounding streets is a good way to see how the layout of ancient Rome still shapes the modern city.
