Temple of Vibia Sabina and Hadrian

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The temple was originally known as the Temple of Matidia and Hadrian, dedicated to Hadrian's wife Vibia Sabina as well.

2. 2

   Eleven of the original 15 columns on the north side are still standing in their original positions.

3. 3

   The base of the columns was originally concealed by the street level, which was raised significantly over the centuries.

4. 4

   The building was converted into the Papal Customs House in the 17th century by architect Carlo Fontana.

5. 5

   The architrave above the columns still features fragments of the original marble entablature.

6. 6

   Reliefs depicting the personified Roman provinces were once mounted on the interior walls of the temple cella.

7. 7

   The columns are made of Proconnesian marble, sourced from the Sea of Marmara in modern-day Turkey.

8. 8

   The structure serves as a primary example of how Roman monumental architecture was adapted for early modern commercial use.

Overview

The Temple of Hadrian is a 2nd-century Roman structure located in Piazza di Pietra, characterized by its surviving northern colonnade. Originally commissioned by Antoninus Pius in 145 AD to honor the deified Emperor Hadrian, the temple was built in the Campus Martius. Today, eleven Corinthian columns remain integrated into the 17th-century Palazzo della Dogana, which now serves as the Rome Chamber of Commerce. The original structure featured a peripteral design with 13 columns on the long sides and 8 on the short sides. The temple once stood atop a high podium faced with marble, decorated with reliefs representing the Roman provinces. These original reliefs are now preserved in the Capitoline Museums and the National Roman Museum. The site demonstrates the architectural practice of 'spolia,' where historical ruins were incorporated into later urban building projects. Visitors can view the remaining columns from the street level in the pedestrianized piazza.

Insider tips

• Visit in the evening when the columns are illuminated to highlight the architectural details against the dark stone.

• Sit at one of the cafes in Piazza di Pietra to view the facade while having a coffee.

• Look for the smaller plaques or signs near the columns that explain the history of the site as a customs house.