Tempio Capitolino, also known as the Capitolium, was the main temple of Brixia. Dating back to the era of Roman ruler Vespasian, the Capitolino today exists in fragmented ruins alongside the Roman Theatre and the Roman Forum. Explore the three restored cellae, or temple rooms, dedicated to a triad of Roman gods.
The temple was constructed in A.D. 74, as can be read on the inscription on the restored pediment. Careful restorations and recreated architectural fragments give visitors an idea of how this grand temple would have appeared in the 1st century. The temple was surrounded on three sides by a terrace, with two rows of arcades that stretched toward the Forum. Check out the marble staircase, which leads to the podium and central porch. Note the immense 36-foot (11-meter) Corinthian columns at the top of the stairs.
Make your way into the temple’s cellae, which house altars that honor Jupiter, Juno and Minerva. Since the 1830s, the cellae have been used to display archaeological fragments and Roman stonemasonry, including sepulchral inscriptions and the bases of monuments.
The central cella shows a collection of architectural fragments and engraved stonemasonry. In the left cella, you’ll find a lapidarium that showcases a series of epigraphs that were excavated in the 19th century. This cella and the central cella have beautifully preserved geometric marble floors, while the right cella is largely ruined.
Continue exploring the Archaeological Park, which has UNESCO World Heritage listing alongside the monastery complex of San Salvatore-Santa Giulia. Check out the old Roman Forum it’s connected to the temple via the ancient decumano massimo, or main street. The adjoining Roman Theatre is an immense 1st-century venue that once might have hosted 15,000 spectators.
Tempio Capitolino is the main feature of Brescia’s Roman ruin complex, which has an entry fee. Reach the complex on Via Musei (Museum Row) by walking 10 minutes from the subway station at Piazza della Vittoria. Visit the nearby Roman Museum or the Brescia City Museum Santa Giulia to find out more about the ancient town of Brixia and its excavated artifacts.
