The Forum Boarium, on the eastern bank of the Tiber in Rome, was an ancient cattle market and an early centre of trade and worship. Its two best-preserved temples are the round Temple of Hercules Victor and the rectangular Temple of Portunus, both dating to the second century BC. You can also see the four-sided Arch of Janus and look across to the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin. The compact site makes a quieter stop among Rome’s ancient landmarks, with several layers of the city’s history close together.
A market beside the Tiber
The Forum Boarium occupied low ground beside the Tiber, between the Capitoline, Palatine and Aventine hills. In Rome’s early history, this was a river port and cattle market, close to the city’s harbour. Trade by river connected Rome with Etruscan communities and Greek colonies, and animals were brought here for sale.
The name refers to the cattle market. The site also had a religious role, and its stories became tied to Hercules. According to legend, Hercules defeated Cacus here after the giant stole cattle belonging to Geryon. The tale was associated with the Ara Maxima, or Great Altar. The area’s commercial and sacred histories are still visible in the temples that remain.
Two temples from the second century BC
The round Temple of Hercules Victor and the rectangular Temple of Portunus are the Forum Boarium’s best-known ancient buildings. Both date to the second century BC. Their survival is closely linked to their later use as Christian churches, which helped preserve the structures through the Middle Ages.
The Temple of Hercules Victor is a circular building with Corinthian columns and marble construction. It is considered one of Rome’s oldest surviving marble buildings. The Temple of Portunus has an Ionic design and was dedicated to the god associated with keys, doors and harbours. Its setting beside the former river port connects its religious purpose with the trade that once took place nearby.
Take time to look at the temples from more than one angle. Their different shapes and column styles make the contrast clear, while their close setting shows how much of the ancient market’s history is concentrated in this part of Rome.
The Arch of Janus and nearby sights
The Arch of Janus is another landmark in the area. It is a four-sided arch, a form with an opening on each face, and is dated to the fourth century. Its position among the former market buildings adds another layer to a walk around the site.
Across the street, the Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin has a medieval bell tower and the famous Mouth of Truth in its portico. The church is close enough to include in the same visit. The Fountain of the Tritons, dating to 1715, is also in the area.
The Forum Boarium is an open-air historic site rather than a single enclosed monument. Its buildings and surrounding streets are best understood together: the temples, arch and nearby church sit within a small area once shaped by river traffic, livestock and worship. An early or weekday visit can leave more room to take in the details at an unhurried pace.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you see at the Forum Boarium?
The site includes the Temple of Hercules Victor, the Temple of Portunus and the Arch of Janus. Nearby sights include Santa Maria in Cosmedin and the Fountain of the Tritons.
Why are the temples so well preserved?
Both temples were later consecrated as Christian churches. Their use as churches helped preserve the buildings through the Middle Ages.
When is a good time to visit the Forum Boarium?
Go early in the day or on a weekday for a quieter visit.
