Forum of Augustus

Question 1

When did construction start, and when was it completed?

Answer 1

20BC, and completed in 2BC

Question 2

Why was it built?

Answer 2

Fulfillment of a promise he made in 42BC, before the Battle of Philippi

Question 3

Significant buildings in the forum?

Answer 3

Temple of Mars Ultor

Question 4

Where is it located?

Answer 4

Rome, adjacent to the forum of Julius Caesar

Question 5

Describe the central courtyard:

Answer 5

• Only held one statue, a likeness of Augustus riding a chariot drawn by four horses
• Inscription simply read PATER PATRIAE

Question 6

Describe the West Portico:

Answer 6

• Housed a very big statue of Augustus, which is now lost, but it was larger than any of the other statues present

West Exedra:
- Contained a statue of Aeneas and his descendants the Julii

Question 7

Describe the East Portico:

Answer 7

East Exedra:
- Statue of Romulus

• The porticos were lined with statues of famous Romans
• Many were Augustus’ relatives, as well as important Romany historical figures, such as politicians and generals

Question 8

Describe the position of the Temple of Mars Ultor:

Answer 8

• Raised on a platform and accessed by a wide flight of stairs- it loomed over the rest of the forum
• The temple backed onto a high wall, seperating the complex from a residential area

Question 9

What did the temple contain?

Answer 9

A statue of Mars the avenger in the middle

Flanked by a statue of Venus Genetrix (Venus the mother) and deified Julius Caesar

Question 10

Significance of the Temple’s statues?

Answer 10

• The temple was dedicated to Mars but this sculptural programme, which featured the gods most closely associated with the Julian clan indicates that the temple was intended to be a showpiece for Augustus and his ancestors