Basilica Ulpia colonnade reconstruction reshapes Trajan's Forum skyline
The Basilica Ulpia, the largest basilica of ancient Rome, partially restored its former glory with a reconstruction finished in December 2023. Originally designed by Apollodorus of Damascus during Emperor Trajan's reign (98-117 AD), it was constructed between 106 and 113 AD before collapsing in the medieval era. Situated in Trajan's Forum, it boasted three entrances and marble sculptures of Dacians. In the mid-1800s, the Palazzo del Gallo di Roccagiovine was erected over the eastern apse. In early 2022, Giovanna Caruso Fendi converted the ground floor into Forof. The €1.5 million reconstruction in 2021, funded by Alisher Usmanov, utilized anastylosis to reconstruct original columns, achieving a double colonnade nearly 24 meters tall, overseen by Claudio Parisi Presicce.
Key facts
- Basilica Ulpia was the largest basilica in ancient Rome, 170m long and 60m wide.
- Designed by Apollodorus of Damascus for Emperor Trajan, built 106-113 AD.
- Collapsed in medieval period after being plundered for materials.
- Palazzo del Gallo di Roccagiovine built over eastern apse in mid-19th century.
- Giovanna Caruso Fendi opened Forof cultural space in early 2022.
- 2003 renovation by Fendi family rediscovered marble pavement and columns.
- Reconstruction funded by Alisher Usmanov with €1.5 million.
- Project completed December 2023 using anastylosis technique.
- Double colonnade reaches nearly 24 meters in height.
- Three giallo antico marble steps restored.
- Supervised by Claudio Parisi Presicce.
Entities
Artists
- Apollodorus of Damascus
- Trajan
- Giovanna Caruso Fendi
- Alda Fendi
- Ignazio Marino
- Claudio Parisi Presicce
- Alisher Usmanov
Institutions
- Fondazione Alda Fendi
- Palazzo Rhinoceros
- Forof
- Soprintendenza Archeologica di Roma
- Comune di Roma
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Trajan's Forum
- Basilica Ulpia
- Palazzo del Gallo di Roccagiovine
- Italica