Forum Romanum

History of the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the pulsating heart of ancient Rome, the place where public, religious, political, and commercial life unfolded. It was the nucleus of Roman civilization, and its remnants tell the story of the Roman Empire today.

The beginnings of the Forum date back to the 7th century BC when it was still a marshy valley between the seven hills of Rome. Over time, the area was drained and began to transform into the central square of Rome, where temples, basilicas, and other public buildings were erected. During the Roman Republic, the Forum continuously grew, becoming the focal point for political activities, with Senate meetings, elections, and public speeches. Many of the most famous figures in Roman history, from Julius Caesar to Cicero, left their marks here.

With the rise of the Roman Empire under Augustus, the Forum reached its peak. Monumental buildings, triumphal arches, and temples defined the cityscape. The Forum began to decline in the late Middle Ages, and much of its structure was destroyed, plundered, or built over in time. Archaeological excavations in the 18th and 19th centuries brought the remains of ancient Rome back to light. Today, the Roman Forum is one of the city's most important tourist attractions and a captivating open-air museum.

What are the opening hours of the Roman Forum?

The Forum is open daily from 9:00 AM throughout the year. The only closing days are January 1 and December 25. On certain days, the Roman Forum may be temporarily closed, for example during Papal visits (Good Friday) or sporting events.

Opening Hours: March 29 – September 30, 2026, 8:30 AM – 7:15 PM daily (last admission 6:15 PM).

What is the admission cost to the Roman Forum?

For adults over 18 years old, the on-site admission price for the Roman Forum is 18.00 Euros. The ticket is sold as a combination ticket, which also allows you to visit the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum. EU citizens up to the age of 25 can purchase discounted combination tickets. Each purchaser must also pay a processing fee.

Where can I buy tickets?
The Roman Forum has two separate entrances where combination tickets can be purchased: one at "Via della Salaria Vecchia" and the other at "Via di San Gregorio," located directly next to the Colosseum. We recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance to avoid long waiting times.

What is included?
In addition to visiting the Roman Forum, the tickets also allow access to the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, each granting one-time access within its validity period.

Waiting times: If you do not already have a ticket, expect at least an hour's wait at the ticket counters. Tip: visiting in the afternoon usually means shorter waits than in the morning and midday hours.

Free admission: On certain days it is possible to visit the Roman Forum and the Palatine for free, usually the first Sunday of each month and a few additional days such as Italy's National Day on June 2nd. Expect significantly longer waiting times on these days.

How do I get to the Roman Forum?

The Forum is located close to the Colosseum, and you can use Metro Line B to the "Colosseo" station. Alternatively, public buses (ATAC) can be used: bus lines 51, 75, 81, 85, 87, 118 and 673 stop at "San Gregorio," while bus lines 81, 85, 87 stop at "Fori Imperiali." The Roman Forum is also easily accessible by tram.

Impressions of the Roman Forum