Exciting News From Rome

 

In a significant event this week, four temples nestled in the heart of Rome have opened their doors to tourists, unveiling an extraordinary historical treasure trove. Among these sacred structures is the very location where Julius Caesar, the renowned Roman emperor, met his untimely demise. The revered site, known as the "Sacred Area," can be found in Largo Argentina, Argentine Square, tracing its origins back to the distant third century B.C. Generously contributing to the endeavor, esteemed luxury jeweler Bulgari provided financial assistance, supporting the creation of accessible walkways and illuminating the area.

Enthusiastic travelers can now embark on a captivating journey through this hallowed ground, except on Mondays and select major holidays. The admission fee for general access stands at an affordable 5 euros (approximately US$5.50).

According to the Associated Press, the temples, which are called the “Sacred Area,” located in Largo Argentina (Argentine Square) date as far back as the third century B.C. The opening was partially funded by luxury jeweler Bulgari, funding accessible walkways and lighting. 

Within the expansive site, four temples stand, believed to be devoted to four goddesses, including Fortuna, the goddess of chance.

Additionally, one can explore Pompey's Curia, a grand rectangular hall that witnessed Caesar's infamous assassination in 44 B.C.

Adorning the premises are various artifacts discovered on-site, including a remarkable fragmentary stone head representing one of the temple's revered goddesses. Remarkably, the travertine pavers, originally laid down by Emperor Domitian in 80 A.D. following a catastrophic fire, still bear witness to the passage of time.

During the opening ceremony on Monday, Claudio Parisi Presicce, an esteemed archaeologist and Rome's foremost cultural heritage official, hailed this site as "one of the most impeccably preserved remnants of the Roman Republic."