Temples of Apollo Sosiano & Bellona — Attraction in Rome

The Temple of Apollo Sosianus, located just steps away from the Teatro di Marcello, is a remarkable yet often overlooked piece of ancient Roman history. Originally constructed in the 5th century BCE, this temple underwent a significant reconstruction in the 1st century BCE under the guidance of Gaius Sosius, the Roman politician after whom it is named. Dedicated to Apollo, the god of music, prophecy, and healing, the temple reflects the profound importance of religion and cultural identity in ancient Rome. Its location within the bustling Campus Martius area once connected it to key public spaces, emphasizing its role as both a religious and civic landmark. The most striking feature of the temple today is its remaining three Corinthian columns, which offer a glimpse into the architectural sophistication of the Roman Republic and early Empire. These columns, with their elaborate capitals, showcase the grandeur of Roman temple design influenced by Greek artistic traditions. Many decorative sculptures and reliefs that adorned the temple were either imported Greek originals or Roman interpretations, underscoring the deep cultural exchange between the two civilizations during this period. What sets the Temple of Apollo Sosianus apart is its integration into the larger urban fabric of ancient Rome. It complemented nearby landmarks like the Theater of Marcellus, creating a monumental ensemble that combined entertainment, religion, and civic life. This harmonious blending of architecture and purpose highlights the vision of Roman urban planners, who sought to create spaces that inspired awe while fulfilling practical functions. Visiting the temple ruins today provides an intimate glimpse into a bygone era of Roman and Greek collaboration in art and architecture. While the site is modest in size, its historical significance is profound. Standing before these ruins, one can imagine the grandeur that once defined the area. The peaceful setting, coupled with its proximity to other major landmarks, makes it a must-see for history enthusiasts and casual...

Tucked just behind the grand Theatre of Marcellus, the Temples of Apollo Sosiano and Bellona are lesser-known gems that whisper of Rome’s layered history. Though only fragments remain a few standing columns and foundational outlines these temples still evoke the majesty and spirituality of ancient Roman religious life.

The Temple of Apollo Sosiano, with its Corinthian columns and partial reconstruction, is especially striking when lit by the afternoon sun. It dates back to the Republican era but was rebuilt in the time of Augustus, reflecting the Emperor’s deep connection to Apollo as his divine protector. Just beside it, the Temple of Bellona, goddess of war, stood as a symbol of Rome’s military might — where Senate meetings were held before campaigns.

What makes this site special is the atmosphere. It’s not crowded like the Forum or Colosseum. You can pause, reflect and imagine the rituals, declarations and decisions that once shaped the empire.

Tip: Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Portico of Octavia and the Jewish Ghetto for a deeper sense of Rome’s historical layers.

A short visit but a meaningful one for those who appreciate quiet corners...

The Temple Of Apollo It was built in 432 1 BC during a plague and for this reason was dedicated to Apollo Medicus. In the Augustan era a radical reconstruction was promoted by Gaius Sosius ( was a Roman General and Politician) , former lieutenant of Julius Caesar, from whom the temple got its final denomination “SOSIANUS” . The temple had six Carrara marble columns of the front side while the flanks and the rear façade were decorated by semi-columns made with travertine stone. The pediment of the building was ornamented with an Amazonomachy “a scene depicting the battle between the Greeks Ann the Amazons”, while the temple’s inner chamber “cella” was lavishly decorated with colored marbles. The three standing columns that one can see today were raised in 1940 on background of the newly built road axis connecting the center of Rome to the Via Ostiense and the sea. In this area where were located The Foro Holitorium (vegetable...