Foro di Cesare (Forum of Caesar), Rome

Julius Caesar is arguably the best known and most dominant personality in Roman history. He became the dictator of Rome at the end of the Roman Republic period. Known for his military genius, he expanded Rome's territory through successful campaigns, particularly in Gaul, which is modern-day France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and parts of Germany. His assassination in 44 BC by a group of senators led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire.

Julius Caesar built the Forum of Caesar to showcase his power and accomplishments. The forum served both as a symbol of his political and military successes, particularly his conquest of Gaul, and as a practical solution to overcrowding in the Roman Forum. It also allowed Caesar to enhance his image, connecting his name to a grand architectural project and solidifying his legacy in the city.

A central element of the forum was the Temple of Venus Genetrix, which Caesar vowed to build before the Battle of Pharsalus in 48 BC. By doing so, he sought the favor of Venus, the legendary ancestor of his gens Julia, in a battle against rival Pompey, who also worshiped the goddess. The temple was completed after Caesar's assassination.

The Forum of Caesar functioned as more than just an expansion of the Roman Forum. It became a hub for public and senatorial affairs, reinforcing Caesar's close association with the Senate. He even had the Senate meet in front of the temple, a move that was unpopular among senators. The Julian Senate House was also reconstructed under Caesar, bringing the senate house closer to his forum and further symbolizing his political dominance.

The forum housed significant statues, including an equestrian statue of Caesar, a statue of his favorite horse, and later a gilded statue of Cleopatra, thus setting a precedent for honoring notable women. Inside the Temple of Venus Genetrix, a collection of art and artifacts and a prized collection of engraved gems were displayed.

Today, the Forum of Caesar is largely in ruins, but several notable remains can still be seen. The most visible of them are the Temple of Venus Genetrix's ruins. While much of the forum is beneath the level of modern streets lined with contemporary buildings, part of the old paved area, showcasing the layout of the ancient public space, is still in sight. Coupled with some imagination, it can allow you to fully envision the original space.