The Via dei Fori Imperiali is a relatively new addition to Rome‘s street plan. It connects the Colosseum to the Piazza Venezia, the most central square of the city, and on both sides of the road archaeological ruins of the Imperial Forums are visible. At the moment the Via dei Fori Imperiali is pedestrian (though buses and taxi’s are allowed on weekdays).
A brief history of the Via dei Fori Imperiali in Rome
The original name of the Via dei Fori Imperiali was Via dell’Impero and it was built during the fascist dictatorship of Benito Mussolini.
The intention was to connect the symbol of Ancient Roman civilization (the Colosseum) to the main symbol of fascist Italy (the Monument for Vittorio Emanuele II).
Apart from the symbolical value, its construction also had a practical reason. Together with the Via del Mare (now Via del Teatro di Marcello) it connected the centre of Rome to the southern districts of the city.
The Via dell’Impero was finished on April 9th 1932, but after the end of World War II the name was changed into its present one.
Unfortunately an entire medieval neighborhood, including some ancient churches, had been demolished in order to be able to create the street.
Special Events
- Annual: On June 2nd, there is a military parade in honour of the republic.
- Annual: The final leg of the Giro d’Italia ends on the Via dei Fori Imperiali.
- Annual: December 31st: All sorts of entertainment in the hour leading up to the New Year’s celebrations.
Leave a Reply