Column of Phocas
#romanforum
The Column of Phocas stands as the last monument ever added to the Roman Forum, erected in 608 AD. This tall, solitary column honors the Byzantine Emperor Phocas, yet its true significance lies in marking the Forum’s final days as a political center. Compared to the Forum’s older ruins, this column feels almost out of place, representing a changing Rome. Though it may not be as grand as other structures, its presence is a poignant reminder of the empire’s decline. For those interested in the transition from ancient to medieval Rome, it’s a fascinating and often-overlooked landmark.