Portico d’Ottavia

What remains of the once majestic Portico d’Ottavia stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Rome. The Portico d’Ottavia, which you see before you, is a whisper of its former glory. Emperor Augustus, in a gesture of familial love, decided to refurbish a much older portico. He dedicated it to his sister, Octavia the Younger, around 27 BC. This newly renovated Portico d’Ottavia was more than just a colonnaded walkway. It was a vibrant cultural hub, encompassing temples dedicated to Juno Regina and Jupiter Stator. Imagine strolling through its grand arches, the air thick with the scent of incense and the murmur of scholarly debate. This is because the Portico d’Ottavia also housed a magnificent library, a treasure trove of Greek and Latin literature. Sadly, fires ravaged the Portico d’Ottavia throughout its history. It was restored multiple times, but its golden age eventually faded. Through the passage of time, the Portico d’Ottavia has been repurposed. It even served as a bustling fish market during the medieval period, a faint echo of its former grandeur. As you stand here, picturing the echo of togas rustling and chariots rumbling over the ancient stones, you are experiencing a tangible connection to a bygone era. The Portico d’Ottavia is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of history and its ability to captivate us across millennia.