One of the most iconic monuments of the Roman Empire, the Temple of Venus and Roma

Standing at the gate of the Colosseum, looking out, there is another arch on the high slope to the right of the Arch of Constantine, which is the Arch of Titus. On one side of it, there is an inscription, which roughly means that the Senate dedicated this monument to Emperor Titus to commemorate his great victory in the Jewish War in Galilee. In 71 AD, Jerusalem fell, and he returned to Rome and received a grand triumphal celebration. Next to the row of columns to the right of the Arch of Titus is the Temple of Venus and Roma. The Temple of Venus and Roma The Temple of Venus and Roma began construction in 121 AD, designed and built by Emperor Hadrian himself. In 283 AD, a fire partially destroyed the building, and in 307 AD, Maxentius restored it. The temple is enormous, with more than 200 gray granite columns surrounding a rectangular structure, exuding grandeur. The architectural design uniquely combines Hellenistic proportions with Roman architectural techniques. The temple has two inner sanctuaries and a vestibule oriented east-west. The side facing the Colosseum is dedicated to the goddess Venus Felix, while the inner sanctuary facing the Capitol is dedicated to Roma aeterna, the guardian deity of Rome, who is the sacred embodiment of the city of Rome and the territories of the Roman Empire. The longitudinal section of the Temple of Venus and Roma shows that the temple's rich and exquisite architectural decorations are also the reason for its outstanding appeal. The dome's plaster was gilded, and the large granite, stone columns, and colorful marble floors all showcased grandeur in every detail. The walls were covered with marble slabs, and exquisite statues were placed in niches, creating a solemn and luxurious visual impact. After visiting the Temple of Venus and Roma, we got back on the bus and continued our journey. From the bus window, we could see the ruins of the Temple of Venus and Roma standing tall on the old city walls. Through the ruins, one can still glimpse its once glorious splendor.