Umbilicus urbis Romae

The Umbilicus Urbis Romae is a cylindrical brick structure in the Roman Forum, positioned near the Arch of Septimius Severus. It stands roughly 2 meters tall with a diameter of about 4.5 meters and features an open pit directly beneath its base.

The structure was built in the 2nd century BC as the center point of Rome. It was rebuilt around 203 AD under Emperor Septimius Severus to adapt to changes in the Forum's layout.

New arrivals in Rome would deposit soil from their homeland into the pit beneath the structure to mark their acceptance into the city. This personal ritual created a symbolic link between the individual, their origin, and their new home.

The monument sits in the middle of the Forum and is easy to reach when exploring the area near the Arch of Septimius Severus. It remains accessible at all times and requires no special arrangements to view up close.

In ancient times the structure opened just three days each year, when it was believed to function as a gateway between the living and the dead. These rare openings were part of religious rituals and reveal how deeply spiritual beliefs shaped Roman life.

Location: Rome

GPS coordinates: 41.89272,12.48456

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41