Graecostasis, Ancient diplomatic platform in Roman Forum, Italy
The Graecostasis was a raised platform beside the Rostra that served as a designated space for foreign ambassadors during public assemblies and Senate meetings. The foundation stones of this structure lie beneath the current ground level of the Forum and reveal its original location.
The structure began as a wooden platform during the late Republican period and later became a stone edifice at the southwest end of the Comitium. This transformation reflected the growing importance of formal diplomatic processes in Roman society.
The platform took its name from Greek envoys of Massilia, who were the first foreign representatives permitted to use this speaking area. The name still reflects the importance of those early diplomatic exchanges in the Forum.
Visitors will find the structure beside the remains of the original Rostra, with foundation stones visible below the current ground level. It helps to visit during daylight to observe the remains clearly.
Foreign dignitaries were forbidden from entering the Senate House and instead waited on this platform to hear public speeches. This rule reveals how strictly Romans guarded their institutions and the specific place they assigned to outsiders.
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