The center of government in ancient Rome was the Roman Forum. This public space served as the epicenter for political, social, and commercial life. The Forum housed important government buildings, temples, and markets, where citizens gathered to discuss political issues, conduct legal matters, and participate in public events. Key structures in the Forum included the Senate House (Curia), where the Senate convened, and various temples dedicated to Roman deities. As Rome evolved, the Forum became a symbol of the Republic and later the Empire, illustrating the central role of civic engagement in Roman society.