Can you visit the Roman Forum before the Colosseum?
Rome is one of the world’s great historical cities, a place where you can gaze upon the Colosseum’s gory battlefields in the morning before refreshing in the Vatican’s pious serenity the very same day!
One of Rome’s most astounding archaeological sites is that of the Roman Forum, the place where deals were made, parades marched and emperors enshrined for all of eternity.
History buffs and Roman visitors alike will love visiting the Roman Forum, as it carries so many of the fallen empire’s intricate details and complexities in one well-preserved ruin.
From The Curia (where the senate would meet), to the Basilica of Constantine (with its stunning arches), through to the famed Arch of Titus, the Roman Forum is truly the best place where you can learn more about the history of Rome you won’t find in a standard doco, and there is a lot to keep you going whilst you explore its tranquil grounds.
You will also be thrilled to know that, yes! You can most certainly visit the Roman Forum before heading to the Colosseum. The two wonders are located on the very same archaeological site, so you will have no trouble skipping over to the arena once you have had your fill of arches, temples and vias – you just have to stick to your Colosseum tour time if you have pre-booked for it!
We totally recommend visiting the Roman Forum before heading to the Colosseum, and you are sure to enjoy the contrast between the Forum’s relative serenity to the Colosseum’s startling grandeur.
The Colosseum itself is the perfect way to top off this exciting day tour, as you will get up in the grandstands and marvel at the arena’s sheer magnitude, a place where for many years gladiators were forced into fierce contests at the mercy of the emperor and the Roman people.
Just be sure to check out these other sites when you’re there:
The Vatican City
Even the staunchest atheists should be able to get something out of the Vatican: it’s home to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, after all, with both cathedrals bearing some of history’s most intricate masterpieces.
Palatine Hill
Known as the “nucleus of the Roman Empire”, Palatine Hill is a fascinating archaeological site that encompasses what was Ancient Rome’s most lavish neighbourhood.