Temple of Saturn

The Temple of Saturn rises at the southwestern corner of the Forum and shows eight granite columns with Ionic capitals on a high travertine podium. Beneath the podium stood a room where quaestors managed the state treasury and stored documents along with military standards.

Construction started in the 6th century BCE under King Tarquinius Superbus, with dedication following in 498 BCE at the founding of the Republic. A major fire in 283 CE destroyed much of the building and required extensive rebuilding.

The name honors Saturnus, the Roman god of sowing and harvest, whose December festival dissolved everyday social rules and brought slaves and free citizens together at the same table. During these days families exchanged small gifts and lit candles across the city to celebrate light in the darkest season.

The columns stand on a raised base and remain visible from several angles, especially from the central area of the Forum. Early morning or late afternoon light falls favorably on the west facade and highlights the inscription clearly.

The inscription SENATVS POPVLVSQVE ROMANVS INCENDIO CONSVMPTVM RESTITVIT on the facade recalls that the Senate and People of Rome restored the building destroyed by fire. These words show how important the site remained for the city even after severe damage.