Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus Capitolinus

Etruscans and Their Influence

Around the 6th century B.C., the Etruscans were the dominant civilization in the region of Etruria, which corresponds to modern-day Tuscany.
The Etruscans expanded their influence into Rome, with a succession of Etruscan kings ruling the city during this period.

During the Etruscan reign in the 6th century B.C., construction began on a significant temple in Rome under Etruscan patronage.
The temple was dedicated in May 293 B.C.
Referred to as the Temple of Jupiter OMC (Optimus Maximus Capitalinus) for simplicity.
Dedicated to Jupiter and his companions, Juno and Minerva, collectively known as the Capitoline Triad.
Temples honoring the Capitoline Triad have specific architectural implications.

Built on the Capitoline Hill, one of Rome's major seven hills, which became the city's religious center.
The Temple of Jupiter was situated approximately where one of the palaces stands today.
The Capitoline Hill was redesigned during the Renaissance by Michelangelo, featuring an oval piazza called the Campidoglio, and three palaces: the Capitoline, Conservatory, and Senatorial Palaces.
The Temple of Jupiter OMC served as the most important temple in ancient Rome.

The temple's design has influenced much of Roman temple architecture.
The temple experienced multiple fires and subsequent rebuilds throughout its history, resulting in stylistic changes over time.
Restored views and plans provide insight into its original appearance around May 293 B.C.
Rectangular structure with a deep porch and freestanding columns.
A single staircase at the front emphasizes the facade.
The back wall is plain, and the cella (central space) is divided into three parts (tripartite cella) to honor Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva.

Triple cella indicates a temple dedicated to the Capitoline Triad.
Tall podium, approximately 13 feet high.
Facade orientation with a single staircase and a deep porch.
Triple entranceway into the three cellas.
Materials used: wood for columns and superstructure, mud brick for the podium and walls, and terracotta for sculptural decorations.

The Tomb of the Shields and Seats from Cerveteri (6th century B.C.) demonstrates similar architectural features.
The tomb's main space is divided into three parts with a single staircase, indicating a focus on the facade.
The prioritization of facades is an Etruscan element adopted by the Romans in both temple and tomb architecture.

The Temple of Jupiter OMC (6th century B.C.) and the Parthenon in Athens (5th century B.C.) are roughly contemporary.
The Romans integrated elements from both Greek and Etruscan architecture into their own temple designs.
The Parthenon has a lower podium and a staircase that encircles the entire building.
The Parthenon features a single cella and is constructed using marble.

The Romans were influenced by the Greeks in using stone for their temple architecture.
The altar was located outside the temple for religious services.
Access to the sacred cult statues inside the temple was restricted to priests.

Google Earth offers a feature to view ancient Rome, providing a virtual reconstruction of the city and its buildings, including the Capitoline Hill and the Temple of Jupiter OMC.

The podium of the Temple of Jupiter OMC still exists.
The podium is constructed using ashlar masonry, consisting of rectangular blocks of tufa stone.
Ashlar masonry was a popular building technique in Rome during the 6th and 5th centuries B.C.