Matúš K.
Google
The Forum of Augustus (Latin: Forum Augustum) is one of the Imperial Forums in Rome, built by Emperor Augustus between 27 and 2 BC. It was the second of the Imperial Forums to be constructed, following the Forum of Julius Caesar, and it was designed to honor Augustus’ military victories, particularly the conquest of Gaul and Egypt, and to reinforce his image as Rome’s first emperor.
Key Features:
1. Architecture:
• Size: The forum measures approximately 120 meters by 75 meters (394 feet by 246 feet).
• Design: It was a rectangular plaza surrounded by a colonnade of Corinthian columns with a large open space in the center, which was used for various public functions.
• Temple of Mars Ultor: The forum’s most significant feature was the Temple of Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger), dedicated to the god of war. It was built to honor Mars for aiding Augustus in avenging the murder of his adoptive father, Julius Caesar, and avenging his killers in the Battle of Philippi (42 BC). The temple stood at the far end of the forum.
2. Monumental Decorations:
• Statues of Roman Heroes: Around the forum were statues of Roman gods, emperors, and military leaders, including Augustus, Julius Caesar, and other important figures from Roman history.
• The Battle of Actium: The forum’s decoration also celebrated Augustus’ victory over Mark Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium (31 BC). The victory in this battle consolidated Augustus’ power and marked the beginning of the Roman Empire.
3. Function:
• The Forum of Augustus served as a space for public ceremonies, including legal proceedings, speeches, and military celebrations. It also played a symbolic role in asserting Augustus’ power and legitimacy.
Purpose and Significance:
• Political Symbolism: The forum was a tool for Augustus to project his authority and legitimize his power as emperor, connecting his rule to Rome’s military successes and divine favor.
• Religious and Military Function: The Temple of Mars Ultor was central to Roman propaganda, emphasizing Augustus as both a military leader and a bringer of peace.
• Architectural Innovation: It was one of the most impressive displays of Roman architecture, demonstrating the power and cultural achievement of the Roman Empire under Augustus.
The Forum of Augustus was an integral part of the urban landscape of ancient Rome and contributed to shaping the image of Rome as the center of the ancient world. While much of the forum is in ruins today, the Temple of Mars Ultor and its surrounding structures remain significant examples of Roman imperial architecture.