Temple of Castor and Pollux in the Roman Forum

Today, only little remains of the great Temple of Castor and Pollux in the Roman Forum, the twin sons of god Jupiter. According to legend, during the war against the Etruscans and the Latins, two handsome men leading the Roman cavalry brought Rome to victory.

Castor & Pollux: the Demigod Twins

Everyone in Rome figured out the two twins must have been Castor and Pollux, also known as Dioscuri, sons of Jupiter. To worship them the Romans built a beautiful temple, of which today only three columns remain dating back to the 6th century A.D.

The two demigods became the symbol of Rome military success, favored by Roman knights and noblemen, the only social categories that could actually afford to have horses.

Purpose & Meaning of the Temple

Therefore, the Temple of Castor and Pollux intended to celebrate the rule of aristocracy in military success. Next to the temple there’s a water spring and a pool dedicated to Juturna, the nymph of good health: according to legend, the Castors were spotted here watering their horses after the fight.

However, the temple of Castor and Pollux was not only a place of worship. It was also the place where fathers came to officially names their children.