Forum continued

We would spend almost 3 hours in the Forum, walking slowly and stopping to rest where we could find shade. We, of course were trying to imagine what it must have been like when it was new and vibrant, now so long ago.

Our next visit would be to the top of that white building at center....

A plaque tells us that here the body of Julius Caesar was burned following his assassination.

People throw coins (not sure why) onto the mound where Caesar was burned

Work is still going on maintaining and restoring the ancient buildings. This entrance is for workers only.

We found some shade from the midday sun

The brick pillars supported a two-floor shopping mall with fast food restaurants

The columns of the Temple of Saturn

Looking back the way we came. The plain building at left is the Senate

Only the facade's supporting pillars remain of the Temple of Saturn

 The Arch of Septimus Severus

The exit is up a broad steep stairway onto the streets above.

This is the view once you reach street level. If you don't want to immerse yourself in walking through the Forum you can see it from here-for free.

Next - a commanding view of the city....