Temple of Hercules Victor

Deity: Hercules

Title: Temple of Hercules Victor

Location: The Forum Boarium- Rome, Italy

Date: 2nd century BC

Dimensions: 14.8x10.66 meters

Architect: Hermodorus of Salamis

Medium: Marble covered in stucco

Photo by: Caitlyn Mitchell

Significance of the work:

One of the many temples erected to Hercules throughout the Roman empire, this temple in the Forum Boarium is considered to be the oldest temple still standing in ancient Rome. It was Commissioned by the Roman merchant Octavius Herrenus and designed by Hermodorus of Salamis in the second century BC. Salamis is known for his temples throughout Rome including the Temple of Jupiter Stator. This temple is typically mixed up with the temple of Vesta located down the road in the Roman Forum. This mix-up can be attributed to their similar construction of Greek architecture. It is a round temple with 20 Corinthian columns. A large statue of Hercules would have been placed in the center of the temple for visitors to pay homage. The location is thought to be the location where Hercules slew Cacus on his return from his eighth labor in his quest to become immortal.

Sources: http://www.aviewoncities.com/rome/forumboarium.htm

http://www.roman-empire.net/articles/article-020.html