1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Europe Travel

Rome - Temple of Fortuna Virilis
The the Temple of Fortuna Virilis was dedicated to the god Portumnous, protector of harbors and sea trade. It's from the second century, but was turned into a church in 872, which preserved it.

Behind, you can see the column of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, where you'll find the bocca della verita, an old roman sewer cover now built into the wall, in which tourists and other rogues place their arms. If they are liars, legend tells us, their arms will be severed violently. If this were true, no doubt Roman drivers would have to contend with torrents of blood flooding the streets, a fact which would not necessarily slow them down.

Rome - Temple of Fortuna Virilis Picture

Italy Picture Gallery | previous | next

Picture of Rome © 2003 by James Martin, licensed to About

Explore Europe Travel
About.com Special Features

Find travel inspiration and get the best tips and reviews for your next getaway. More >

The best times to visit East and Southern Africa. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Europe Travel

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.