The Temple of Vesta is one of the most distinctive ruins in the Roman Forum, easily recognised by its circular design and Corinthian columns. Although only part of the structure survives today, the temple remains an important reminder of Rome’s religious past and the rituals that shaped daily life in the ancient city.
A circular temple with a unique role
Unlike most Roman temples, which followed a rectangular plan, the Temple of Vesta was round. Dedicated to Vesta, goddess of the hearth, it housed the sacred fire of Rome. The Vestal Virgins, priestesses chosen from noble families, were responsible for maintaining this fire, which was believed to protect the city’s future. If the fire went out, it was seen as a bad omen for Rome.
- Book a small group Roman Forum tour taking in the Temple of Vesta.
What visitors can see today
The temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, and what remains today is a partial reconstruction from the early 20th century. Visitors will find a section of the circular podium, several columns, and fragments of decorated stone. While it is no longer intact, the site still provides a strong sense of the temple’s former elegance and importance within the Forum.
Exploring the Roman Forum
The Temple of Vesta is located near the House of the Vestal Virgins, where the priestesses lived. Together, these ruins give visitors a clearer understanding of the religious duties carried out here. Exploring this area also brings you close to other major sites in the Forum, including the Temple of Caesar and the Arch of Titus, making it easy to include as part of a wider visit.
Why book the Colosseum Arena Floor & Ancient Rome Tour?
- ⚔️ Enter through the historic Gladiator’s Gate—a restricted entrance few visitors use
- 🏟 Stand on the partially reconstructed arena floor—the same ground where gladiators once fought
- ⏱ Skip the lines with priority access, maximizing your time in Rome’s ancient heart
- 🏛 Explore the Colosseum’s first and second tiers, including emperor and spectator seating areas
- 🗿 Visit the Roman Forum—the political, social, and religious center of ancient Rome
- ⛰ Climb Palatine Hill, soaking in views of the Circus Maximus and learning about Rome’s mythical origins
- ⏳ Duration: approximately 3 hours—a deep dive into history without feeling rushed
Practical information for visitors
Entry to the Temple of Vesta is included in the standard ticket for the Roman Forum, which is usually combined with access to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. The site is outdoors, so comfortable shoes are recommended, as the ground can be uneven. Visiting early in the day helps avoid crowds and allows for quieter exploration of the ruins.
There are also several tours available that take in the Roman Forum, Colosseum and Palatine Hill. In my experience, the large group tours feel rushed and you’re too busy walking to take in the information the guide is giving you over the crackling earpiece.
A guided tour genuinely helps bring the Roman Forum to life, but I strongly advise opting for a small group tour.
FAQs about the Temple of Vesta
- Where is the Temple of Vesta located? It is inside the Roman Forum, close to the House of the Vestal Virgins.
- What was the temple used for? It was dedicated to the goddess Vesta and housed the sacred fire, maintained by the Vestal Virgins.
- Can you go inside the temple? No, visitors can only view the remains from outside, but the site is clearly visible from the main paths.
- Is the Temple of Vesta included in Forum tickets? Yes, entry is included in the standard Forum, Colosseum, and Palatine Hill combined ticket.
- When is the best time to visit? Early morning or late afternoon visits are quieter and better for photos, especially when light falls on the stone columns.
More Rome travel
Other Rome travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- Why Rome is a brilliant city for solo travellers.
- What Rome’s piazzas sadly lack.
- How Julius Caesar’s assassination site became a cat sanctuary.
- The Capuchin Crypt – Rome’s most ghoulish attraction.
- Can you take photos inside Rome’s Capuchin Crypt?
