STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

In the context of the whole forum complex, the underground structure of the Criptoporticus provided the boundary, the raised area and the support for the sacred area characterised by its two imposing twin temples, one dedicated to the deified Augustus and the other to the goddess Roma. This system of basement-level galleries, dating from the period when the city was founded, is shaped liked an upside-down U, framing the sacred forum on three sides. Its interior is characterised by two parallel galleries supported in the centre by columns made of local limestone, linked by arches and enclosed by barrel vaults. The perimeter walls are made of cracked and plastered pebbles, while the exact details of the floor are not known due to the prolonged use of the area as depositories during the Middle Ages and its division into cellars until the early 20th century. The original entrances opened at the ends of the lateral walkways, allowing easy passage between the sacred terrace and the porticoes of the “commercial” area. The entrance used today, however, was created using a modern hole in the wall during the works carried out by Schiaparelli.