Photo of the week: Roman Forum from Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy

This week’s travel photo is of the ruins of the ancient Roman Forum from Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy. In ancient Rome, Palatine Hill was where the rich and powerful lived. I can only imagine what this view must have been like 2000 years ago.

More about the Ancient Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

The Roman Forum was the beating heart of ancient Rome, a sprawling plaza surrounded by grand temples, basilicas, and government buildings. Walking through its ruins today, it’s easy to imagine the bustling activity that once took place here—politicians delivering speeches, merchants striking deals, and victorious generals parading through the streets. Some of the most iconic structures include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Septimius Severus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins. Though time has worn down its grandeur, the Forum remains one of the most awe-inspiring windows into Rome’s past.

Overlooking the Forum is Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome. According to myth, this is where Romulus and Remus were raised by the she-wolf, and it later became the home of emperors and aristocrats. The hill offers a stunning view of the city and contains the ruins of opulent palaces, including the Domus Augustana, which belonged to Emperor Augustus. Wandering through the remains of imperial gardens and vast courtyards, it’s easy to understand why Palatine Hill was once the most desirable address in ancient Rome. This is the vantage point from where I took this photo.