Temple of Hadrian (Tempio di Adriano)

The basics

Built by Emperor Antoninus Pius, Emperor Hadrian’s adopted son, the Temple of Hadrian (Tempio di Adriano) dates back to AD 145 and once overlooked the Field of Mars (Campus Martius). Today, all that’s left of the magnificent temple’s original 38 columns are the 11 that form part of Rome’s 17th-century papal palace—now the Borsa building, housing the stock exchange. Italian architect Carlo Fontana integrated the ancient columns into the palace’s north wall, where they remain a striking reminder of Rome’s glorious past.

Many walking tours of Rome’s ancient sites include Hadrian’s Temple along with attractions like the Pantheon and the Church of Santa Maria on Via del Corso (Santa Maria in Via Lata, or Basilica di Santa Maria in Via Lata). Joining a Rome highlights Segway tour is a fun way to explore these and other attractions, including the Trevi Fountain and Trajan’s Column; consider an evening Segway tour to see the monuments beautifully lit.

Things to know before you go

• The Temple of Hadrian tour is especially interesting for history buffs.

• Small-group Pantheon, Santa Maria, and Hadrian’s Temple tours require some walking, so opt for comfortable shoes and sun protection.

• Piazza di Pietra, where you can view the columns of Hadrian’s Temple, is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• The columns are particularly picturesque at night, so be sure to bring your camera if joining a Rome night Segway tour.

How to get there

Hadrian’s Temple is located on Piazza di Pietra in Rome’s historic center, between the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. A number of city buses stop on Via del Corso, just steps from the square.

When to get there

In the evening, Piazza di Pietra is particularly lively, filled with café tables and lined by the columns of Hadrian’s Temple dramatically lit.

The other Temple of Hadrian

Italy is not the only country that is home to an ancient temple dedicated to Hadrian. In Ephesus, Turkey, another temple was built around AD 138 to honor Emperor Hadrian, who visited the ancient city while in Athens a decade earlier.

Ways to explore

The Temple of Hadrian is included on most walking tours through Rome’s centro storico (historic city center). Many tours focus on Emperor Hadrian’s lasting legacy as the mastermind behind many Roman monuments we still know today, from the reconstruction of the Pantheon to Castel Sant’Angelo, all the way to Hadrian’s Wall, a fortification that runs through parts of England. Inside the building that now houses a chamber of commerce, there’s a free multimedia exhibit that takes visitors back to the days of the Roman Empire and a ticketed 22-minute 3D film; time-slotted tickets for the film can be purchased online.

Accessibility

The Temple of Hadrian is located at street level and is partially accessible to wheelchair users. However, expect cobbled, uneven roads through much of Rome’s city center.

Age limits

None

What to pack

History book about imperial Rome, sunscreen, camera

What to wear

Comfortable shoes that are good for walking (there’s nothing like a trip to Rome for boosting your daily step count), hat with a brim

Not allowed

Carving your initials onto an ancient column

Amenities

There’s no food for purchase available inside the chamber of commerce, but the temple is located in a neighborhood filled with bars and restaurants.

Address

The Temple of Hadrian is located in Piazza Pietra, in the heart of Rome’s historic city center and just off the bustling Via del Corso. There are plenty of ways to reach the monument, from taxis to public transportation, though driving isn’t recommended.

Driving

Taxis can drop you off right in front of the Temple of Hadrian, although you’ll have to continue on foot as parts of the neighborhood are closed to traffic. Driving yourself in Rome isn’t recommended, especially in the city center.

Public transportation

The closest subway stop is Barberini on Line A. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk. You’ll also find multiple buses that stop nearby, including the 85, 51, 71, and 83.

Best times to visit

Come in the evening, during the pre-dinner aperitivo hour, and snag a seat at one of the bar terraces facing the Temple of Hadrian.

Best days to visit

Visit from Monday to Friday if you plan on catching the multimedia show and video within the chamber of commerce; the exhibit is closed on weekends.

Best months to visit

Shoulder seasons are ideal for visiting Rome. Avoid July, when the city swelters under intense heat, and August, when most Romans decamp for the beach or mountains and the capital empties out.

Special events

At night, taking place throughout parts of the year, light shows are projected onto the columns. Timing varies; check in advance.