Temple of Caesar, A Monument to the Divine Transformation of Caesar

Temple of Caesar, Roma, Italia

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Introduction

The Temple of Caesar, located on the east side of the Ancient Roman Forum, began construction in 42 BC. The temple was built to commemorate Caesar, who was assassinated in 44 BC, and also to honor Augustus's adoptive father. During an athletic event, a bright comet appeared in the Roman night sky for seven consecutive days. Romans believed this was a sign that Caesar had ascended to become a god. Therefore, the temple was built with a statue of Caesar with a star on his forehead. This comet was named the "Julian Star" or "Caesar's Star," and the Temple of Caesar became known as the Comet Temple. In 29 BC, the Temple of Caesar was consecrated. The Caesar Comet is one of the five comets known to have a negative absolute magnitude. Although it may have disappeared by now, the comet's appearance became a powerful political propaganda for Augustus's career in governance.