Tarquin Arx, also known as the Arx Tarquinia, was an ancient citadel located on the Capitoline Hill in Rome, Italy. It was considered to be the oldest part of the city, and was the site of many important religious and political buildings.

History of Tarquin Arx

The origins of Tarquin Arx are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded by the Etruscans, who ruled Rome from the 7th to the 6th century BC. The name "Tarquin" is thought to derive from the Etruscan king Tarquinius Priscus, who is credited with building the first city walls around Rome.

Under the Etruscan kings, Tarquin Arx was the center of political and religious power. It was the site of the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the most important temple in ancient Rome, as well as the Senate House and the Comitium, where the popular assemblies were held.

After the expulsion of the Etruscans in 509 BC, Tarquin Arx remained an important religious and political center. The Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus was rebuilt and expanded, and the Senate House and Comitium were replaced by new buildings.

Layout of Tarquin Arx

Tarquin Arx was located on the Capitoline Hill, which is one of the seven hills of Rome. It was a small, rectangular area, approximately 100 meters long and 50 meters wide.

The Arx was surrounded by a wall, which was built to protect the citadel from attack. The only entrance to the Arx was through a gate, which was located on the south side of the citadel.

Inside the Arx, there were a number of important buildings, including the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the Senate House, and the Comitium. The Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus was the largest and most important temple in ancient Rome. It was dedicated to Jupiter, the king of the gods, and was used for religious ceremonies and sacrifices.

The Senate House was the meeting place of the Senate, which was the ruling body of ancient Rome. The Senate was composed of 300 members, who were chosen from the most powerful families in Rome.

The Comitium was a public space where the popular assemblies were held. The assemblies were made up of all Roman citizens, and they voted on laws and elected officials.

Excavations of Tarquin Arx

The ruins of Tarquin Arx were first excavated in the 19th century. The excavations revealed the foundations of the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the Senate House, and the Comitium.

The excavations also uncovered a number of artifacts, including statues, coins, and pottery. These artifacts are now on display in the Capitoline Museums, which are located on the Capitoline Hill.

Tarquin Arx Today

Tarquin Arx is no longer a functioning citadel, but it is still an important archaeological site. The ruins of the Arx are open to the public, and they can be visited by tourists.

The Arx is a popular tourist destination, as it offers a glimpse into the history of ancient Rome. The ruins of the Arx are also a reminder of the importance of the Capitoline Hill, which was the center of political and religious power in ancient Rome.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What was the purpose of Tarquin Arx?
  Tarquin Arx was a religious and political center in ancient Rome. It was the site of the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the Senate House, and the Comitium.

• Who built Tarquin Arx?
  Tarquin Arx was built by the Etruscans, who ruled Rome from the 7th to the 6th century BC.

• When was Tarquin Arx destroyed?
  Tarquin Arx was not destroyed; it is still an important archaeological site in Rome. However, the Arx was damaged by fire several times throughout its history.

• What can I see at Tarquin Arx today?
  Today, you can see the ruins of the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the Senate House, and the Comitium at Tarquin Arx. You can also see a number of artifacts that were excavated from the site, including statues, coins, and pottery.

• Is Tarquin Arx open to the public?
  Yes, Tarquin Arx is open to the public. You can visit the ruins of the Arx by taking a guided tour.