Piazza del Foro and Roman Theater, Brescia

Historic Site in Brescia

Teatro Romano Frammenti Colonne Piazza Del Foro Brescia
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Wolfgang Moroder

In the centre of Brescia's historic district lies the extraordinary archaeological zone that includes Piazza del Foro and the Roman Theatre, one of the best places to visit in Brescia for travellers fascinated by ancient history, architecture, and archaeological storytelling. These two sites sit directly opposite each other along Via Musei—once the Roman Decumano Massimo—and together form the monumental core of Roman Brixia. Their combination of temples, porticoes, ruins, and historic palaces creates an iconic setting where Roman splendour blends seamlessly with Renaissance and Baroque elegance.

This spot is one of the best places to see in Brescia because visitors can trace the city's Roman past in a single walk, moving from the Capitolium and the civic basilica remains in Piazza del Foro to the semicircular seating and stage structures of the Roman Theatre. Combined, they offer a vivid portrait of daily life in ancient Brixia and are often visited on walking tours of Brescia that follow the UNESCO-listed archaeological corridor.

History and Significance of Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre

Piazza del Foro occupies the former Roman forum of Brixia, originally laid out in the 1st century AD and built over older Iron Age settlements. During Roman times, it served as the administrative, religious, and commercial centre of the city. Standing at its northern end was the impressive Capitolium, dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, flanked by long porticoed arcades whose remains are still visible today. Nearby stood the civil basilica, the heart of the city's legal and political life.

Directly across Via Musei sits the Roman Theatre, built in the same period as the Capitolium. It once hosted public performances and civic events, with seating for thousands of spectators. Its semicircular layout, stage remains, and structural footprint still portray the grandeur of Roman entertainments. The proximity of the forum and theatre illustrates how religious, political, and cultural life operated side-by-side in ancient Brixia, forming the monumental core of the Roman city. These sites now form part of the UNESCO property “Longobards in Italy: Places of Power,” recognising their importance in illustrating the transition between Roman and Lombard eras.

Things to See and Do in Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre

Start your visit in Piazza del Foro, where the reconstructed columns of the Capitolium rise dramatically against the Cidneo hill. Explore the visible remains of the porticoes that once lined the forum, as well as the archaeological traces integrated into surrounding buildings. Palazzo Martinengo Cesaresco Novarino on the eastern side offers an impressive archaeological itinerary that showcases finds from the Iron Age through the medieval period.

Cross Via Musei to reach the Roman Theatre, where the curvature of the cavea, the stone seating banks, and the surviving structural walls help you envision the grand performances once staged here. The site provides an atmospheric contrast to the open spaces of the forum. Numerous Renaissance palaces—such as Palazzo Lana, Palazzo Uggeri, Palazzo Maggi Gambara, and Palazzo Maggi di Gradella—surround the square, illustrating the city's architectural evolution from Roman origins to early modern refinement.

How to Get There

Piazza del Foro and the Roman Theatre are located along Via Musei in the heart of Brescia's historic centre. The sites are easily reached on foot from nearby landmarks such as Santa Giulia Museum and Piazza della Loggia. The Brescia Metro stops at Museo station, just minutes away from the archaeological zone Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.. If arriving by car, parking is available on the edges of the Old Town before walking into the preservation district. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. Travellers flying into nearby airports such as Milan Bergamo or Verona can reach Brescia via regional rail connections. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to on Booking.com.

Practical Tips on Visiting Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre

  • Best time to visit Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre: Early morning or late afternoon for soft light on the ruins.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Piazza del Foro is free; Roman Theatre and Capitolium have ticketed access.
  • Opening hours: The square is open at all hours; archaeological interiors follow museum schedules.
  • Official website: Check Brescia Museums for ticket options and hours.
  • How long to spend: 1 to 2 hours, longer if combining with museum visits.
  • Accessibility: Some uneven ancient surfaces; sloped terrain in Piazza del Foro.
  • Facilities: Cafés and restaurants nearby on Via Musei.
  • Photography tip: Capture the Capitolium with the Cidneo hill behind it for dramatic compositions.
  • Guided tours: Highly recommended for understanding the Roman layers and urban layout.
  • Nearby food options: Several trattorias and cafés within a short walk along Via Musei.

Where to Stay close to Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre

Staying in the historic centre places you within minutes of Brescia's Roman core. For boutique charm near Via Musei, consider Albergo Orologio. For serene surroundings in a historic villa, Centro Paolo VI is a relaxing choice within walking distance. Travellers who prefer modern comfort may enjoy AC Hotel Brescia, which offers excellent transport links. Another centrally located option is Hotel Vittoria, ideal for exploring the Roman, medieval, and Renaissance districts on foot.

Is Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Piazza del Foro and the Roman Theatre are two of the must-see places in Brescia, forming one of the most evocative archaeological areas in northern Italy. Their combination of monumental Roman remains, Renaissance palaces, and the scenic backdrop of the Cidneo hill makes them essential stops for any visitor interested in history, culture, or architecture.

FAQs for Visiting Piazza del Foro & Roman Theatre

What was Piazza del Foro in Roman times?
It was the centre of civic, religious, and administrative life in ancient Brixia.

Is the Roman Theatre still intact?
It survives in fragmentary form, but the seating layout and stage area are still easily recognisable.

Are the two sites close together?
Yes, they sit directly opposite each other along Via Musei.

Is this area part of UNESCO?
Yes, it forms part of the UNESCO site “Longobards in Italy: Places of Power.”

How long does a combined visit take?
Around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how many archaeological interiors you explore.

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The Piazza del Foro and Roman Theater appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Brescia!

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Visiting Piazza del Foro and Roman Theater

Address: Piazza del Foro, Brescia, Province of Brescia, Italy
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