The Ancient Roman forum district in Cartagena, known locally as the Barrio del foro romano de Cartagena, is a captivating journey back in time to the heart of Carthago Nova, a bustling Roman city. Nestled in the modern city of Cartagena, Spain, this archaeological site is a treasure trove of Roman history, offering an intriguing glimpse into the daily lives and architectural prowess of ancient Romans.
At the heart of the Ancient Roman forum district is the Decumano, a principal road that once connected the forum with the bustling port area. This porticoed street, originally laid out in the 1st century, underwent significant renovations in the 4th century when Carthago Nova was elevated to the status of provincial capital under Emperor Diocletian. Today, visitors can walk along the remnants of this ancient thoroughfare, which still bears the marks of a late imperial gate that once regulated access between the city and its port.
From the Decumano, a short stroll leads you to the grand thermal baths on Calle Honda. Constructed during the high imperial period, these baths served as a social and recreational hub for the Romans. The complex featured a range of facilities, including hot and cold baths (caldarium and frigidarium), a sauna (sudatio), and a palestra for exercise. The baths remained in use until the 4th century, with later adaptations reflecting the changing needs of the city. Notably, a marble cornucopia discovered here suggests the presence of a deity statue, adding a touch of mystery to this ancient spa.
Scavenger hunts in Cartagena
Discover Cartagena with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Cartagena with your team!
Adjacent to the baths and separated by a cardo, you'll find the Sanctuary of Isis, a testament to the multicultural influences in Carthago Nova. Built in the mid-1st century, this sanctuary was dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis and remained active until the 3rd century. The central temple, or Iseum, was a tetrastyle structure housing the goddess's image. Surrounding the temple were chapels and underground cisterns, which stored water for the sacred rituals performed here. The sanctuary's remnants offer a fascinating insight into the religious practices and beliefs of the time.
East of the thermal baths lies a grand building centered around a Tuscan-style atrium, believed to have been the headquarters of a collegium. This structure, with its richly decorated murals, provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle and social structures of Roman society. The building's two floors were intricately adorned, showcasing the artistic and architectural sophistication of the era.
The Curia, integrated into the new museum complex, was the seat of the local senate and a pivotal element of Roman civic life. This building, originally open to the main forum square, boasted a floor of colorful marbles sourced from across the Roman Empire. A grand statue of Emperor Augustus, depicted as pontifex maximus, presided over the senate sessions. Today, a replica of this statue can be seen in the museum, while the original resides in the Roman Theatre Museum.
The Ancient Roman forum district has been meticulously restored and transformed into a museum, with the official opening in the spring of 2012. The site is divided into two museum spaces along Calle Honda, offering visitors an immersive experience of Roman history. The restoration efforts were recognized with the National Award for Restoration and Conservation of Cultural Heritage in 2013, highlighting the significance and dedication to preserving this historical gem.
In the spring of 2021, a new museum building was inaugurated, showcasing the most significant artifacts unearthed during excavations. This modern facility provides context and depth to the ruins, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of the Ancient Roman forum district.
Exploring the Ancient Roman forum district in Cartagena is like stepping into a bygone era, where the echoes of Roman life still resonate through the stones. Whether you're an avid history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this site offers a unique window into the past, revealing the grandeur and complexity of Roman civilization in Spain.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.