Lapis Niger

Lapis Niger is a black stone surface in the Roman Forum marking the boundary between the Forum and the Comitium. Beneath this pavement lie archaeological layers containing remains from Rome's earliest period.

The site began as a sanctuary in the archaic period, with religious monuments dating to the sixth century BCE. These remains show how Rome honored and organized its sacred spaces during its earliest centuries.

The name means "black stone" and refers to the dark surface visible at this location. Visitors notice today how this ancient site sits at the heart of the Forum and draws people interested in understanding early Roman language and beliefs.

The site is located within the Roman Forum and covered by a wooden protective roof that shields the ancient inscriptions. Morning visits offer the best opportunity to observe details without large crowds.

The carved letters follow a writing style where each line runs in the opposite direction, an early writing method rarely seen today. Some inscriptions contain warnings that possibly represented curses against those who violated sacred boundaries.