Temple of Saturn

The Temple of Saturn (Latin: Templum Saturni; Italian: Tempio di Saturno) was an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the god Saturn, located at the foot of Capitoline Hill in Rome. The original dedication date is traditionally 497 BC, though historical accounts vary. Construction began during the Roman Kingdom under Tarquinius Superbus, with its inauguration occurring early in the Republic. It was reconstructed by Munatius Plancus in 42 BC and later rebuilt after a fire in 360 AD.

The temple served as the location of the aerarium, housing Rome's gold and silver reserves, state archives, and official scales for weighing metals. The podium of the temple was used for posting public notices. Its architecture features Ionic columns with capitals from the Late Antique period and spolia materials such as Egyptian granite and a Republican acanthus frieze. The pediment bears an inscription commemorating its restoration after the 360 AD fire.

Inside, Saturn was depicted as a veiled figure holding a scythe, made of wood filled with oil and adorned with wool bands removed annually on December 17 during the Saturnalia festival. This feast day involved gift exchanges and temporary freedom for slaves, reflecting Saturn's association with wealth and agriculture. The temple's ruins, including its partially preserved pediment and columns, stand as a symbol of Rome's ancient architectural heritage.