Portunus

Cards (26)

  • What does "Fortuna Virilis" mean?
    Manly fortune
  • Who is Portunus?
    God of harbours, keys, and locks
  • When was the temple constructed?
    120-80 BC
  • Where is the temple located?
    In Forum Boarium, between Aventine and Palatine hills
  • What was the Forum Boarium used for in ancient times?
    Cattle market and harbour
  • What features indicate the temple is well preserved?
    Stands on a base and has a naos
  • How does the temple's entrance differ from a Greek temple?
    Only enter from the front, no colonnade
  • What happened to the altar of the temple?
    It does not survive
  • What materials were used in the temple's construction?
    Tufa and limestone covered in stucco
  • What type of decoration does the temple have?
    Limited decoration with a frieze and pediment
  • What type of columns does the temple feature?

    Semi engaged columns
  • What are the two names given to the Temple of Portunus?
    Temple of Portunus and Fortuna Virilis
  • Why was the temple originally attributed to Fortuna Virilis?
    It was thought to represent manly fortune
  • To which god is the Temple of Portunus correctly associated?
    Portunus, god of harbours
  • When was the Temple of Portunus constructed?
    Between 120 BC and 80 BC
  • Where is the Temple of Portunus located?
    In the Forum Boarium
  • What was the Forum Boarium used for?
    It was a cattle market
  • Which hills are located near the Temple of Portunus?
    Palatine and Aventine Hills
  • What geographical feature is near the Temple of Portunus?
    It stands next to the Tiber River
  • What was the area next to the Temple of Portunus during Roman times?
    A harbour
  • What temple is located next to the Temple of Portunus?
    The circular temple of Hercules Victor
  • What is the status of the altar for the Temple of Portunus?
    The altar no longer exists
  • Where did the altar stand in relation to the temple?
    At the foot of the temple steps
  • How did worship occur at the Temple of Portunus?
    All worship took place at the altar
  • What influences can be seen in the design of the Temple of Portunus?
    • Etruscan influence: podium and steps
    • Greek influence: porch and free-standing columns
    • Variation: semi-engaged columns attached to the cella
  • What is the significance of the Temple of Portunus in Roman architecture?

    It is one of the best examples of a Roman temple