Foro civile di Preneste

The Foro civile di Preneste is an archaeological complex beneath the Cathedral of Saint Agapitus Martyr and today's Piazza Regina Margherita. The surviving remains show a basilica with four naves and Doric and Corinthian columns in the front portico.

The site began as an Etruscan-Italic temple in the 4th century BCE. Over the course of Roman times, it developed into the central civic forum of an important city.

The name Preneste came from Oscan language and referred to the place. People used this central area for gatherings, trade, and religious celebrations.

The site lies underground and is partly overlaid by modern structures, which limits access. Visitors should check which sections are open to the public before visiting.

A natural grotto sanctuary was transformed into a nymphaeum with Hellenistic mosaics of fish. A large Nile mosaic shows detailed maps of Egypt and reveals connections to Egyptian religious practices.

Location: Province of Rome

GPS coordinates: 41.83921,12.89226

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:48