Best time to travel to Rome

Poppies at the Roman Forum in Rome

The funeral altar of Julius Caesar, the Arc of Titus, and other ancient temple ruins—all grand monuments, surrounded by bright red flowers

Best time: May–June

Poppies at the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is considered one of the world's oldest archeological monuments. Its ancient ruins date back to 500 B.C., yet many remnants appeared there later during the reign of such emperors as Julius and Augustus Caesar, Domitian, and Trajan. The most prominent attractions of the Roman Forum are the Curia which used to be the center of the Roman Senate, numerous ancient temples including one with the funeral altar of Julius Caesar, the Arch of Titus, and the House and Temple of the Vestals. Undoubtedly, the best season to visit the Forum is late spring and early summer when the hills are covered with wild poppies. Don't miss this unique and beautiful sight!

Practical info

When is the best time to see the poppies at the Roman Forum?

The Roman Forum's poppies can be witnessed from May to June, covering the ground, creating a picturesque spectacle, and bringing attention to botanical gardens. They also have numerous traditional medicinal applications. Show more

Where can one find the ruins of the House and Temple of the Vestals in the Roman Forum?

The ruins of the temples are on Via Sacra within the Roman Forum. The Vestal Virgins occupied the complex, and the monumental house was repurposed in the 16th century to build the papal palace. Visitors can explore the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina, and the Temple of Romulus, amongst others. Show more

What is the historical significance of the Arc of Titus in the Roman Forum?

The Arch of Titus is a monument in the Roman Forum that stands near the Colosseum. The arch commemorates Titus's victory during the Siege of Jerusalem in 70AD. Its Latin inscription attests to the achievement, depicting Romans carrying a menorah and stolen items from the Temple in Jerusalem. Show more

Can visitors enter the Curia in the Roman Forum?

Yes, visitors can visit the Curia, situated at the central part of the Roman Forum between the beautiful Temple of Saturn and the Basilica Julia. First designed in 283 BC, it has undergone extensive renovations and additions, and tourists can explore its prominence in the Roman Republic's governance system. Show more

Which temples are situated in the Roman Forum, and which are the most popular among visitors?

In addition to the Temple of Faustina, the Temple of Vesta, and the Temple of Romulus, various other temples populate the Roman Forum. The Temple of Caesar, centrally placed within the Forum's Northern Quadrant, and the Temple of Saturn found towards the Western end of the Forum are amongst the most popular. Additionally, the Temple of Antoninus and Faustina is an interactive space that regularly hosts Roman forum debates and workshop sessions. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin