The Forum of Caesar and Altare della Patria are two historical sites in Rome located within a short distance of one another, allowing for layered photo compositions.
The curious thing about this proximity is that these landmarks represent two vastly different eras of Rome. On one side, the political ambitions of Julius Caesar in the ancient Foro di Cesare, and on the other side, the nationalist symbolism embodied in the Victor Emmanuel II Monument (Altare della Patria).
Capturing several historical chapters in one frame
That day, I’d spent a lot of time walking around the old Roman forums, and on my way back after shooting the Colosseum, I noticed this composition. I stopped and took the photo because I love the Victor Emmanuel II Monument in the background and also because the sky was beautiful.
Located a short distance from one another, the Forum of Caesar and Altare della Patria create a rare concentration of architectural chapters in a single view. The Foro di Cesare lies directly along Via dei Fori Imperiali, only a few minutes’ walk from Piazza Venezia, where the white façade of the Victor Emmanuel II Monument dominates the skyline.
This perspective of the Forum of Caesar and Altare della Patria allowed me to align the ruins of the ancient forum in the foreground with the neoclassical monument in the back, also including the old Church of Santi Luca e Martina in the shot, which provides a frame for part of the Forum of Caesar.
If you have some time and are interested in seeing more facets of Roman architecture, I recommend taking a walk to the Pantheon and admire its impressive, ancient dome.
The historical significance of each landmark in the photo
The Foro di Cesare dates back to 54–46 BC. It was built to expand the original, overcrowded Roman Forum and serve political and religious functions. The Forum of Caesar is considered the first of the Imperial Forums because it was the earliest purpose-built center of its kind.
Near the Roman Forum and the Forum of Caesar is the beautiful Church of Santi Luca e Martina, which adds a Baroque element to the whole scene. It was originally established in the early medieval period and later redesigned in the 17th century.
In contrast, the Victor Emmanuel II Monument (often called the Altare della Patria, although the latter is a part of the other), represents modern Italy. Constructed between 1885 and 1935, it honors Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of unified Italy.
This white, massive monument can be seen from almost everywhere in Rome, but curiously, it has become a subject of criticism and mockery among some Romans. I find it fascinating that such a sight is celebrated and criticised at the same time, but one thing is certain: it’s impossible to ignore.
