Temple of Castor and Pollux, Ancient temple in Roman Forum, Italy
The Temple of Castor and Pollux shows three freestanding columns made of white marble rising in the eastern part of the Roman Forum. These columns belong to a travertine platform that once supported the entire temple structure.
The ruin dates from a rebuilding that Emperor Tiberius completed in the year 6 after Christ following a fire. Earlier versions of the structure go back to the 5th century before Christ, when Roman troops won an important battle.
The temple honored the Dioscuri, twin brothers from Greek mythology whom Roman merchants considered protectors of commerce and agreements. Traders came here to ask for favor before signing contracts or embarking on journeys.
The columns stand in the center of the Forum and are clearly visible from all pathways. Visitors who arrive early in the morning find quieter moments for photographs and can study the details of the Corinthian capitals at leisure.
The raised platform served Roman speakers as a stage from which they addressed the crowd. Later, money changers used the sheltered space beneath the platform to verify coins and conduct business.
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