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Archaeological site · Aosta, Vale de Aosta
Criptoportico forense
Roman underground gallery of the forum of Augusta Praetoria, with two naves and arches on three sides of a rectangle, next to the cathedral.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Criptoportico forense
The cryptoporticus is an underground gallery built by the Romans beneath the sacred area of the forum of Augusta Praetoria, on the site of today’s praça da catedral. In Augustus’ time the forum had, on an artificial terrace, two temples side by side, surrounded by colonnades. Beneath those colonnades lay the cryptoporticus.
The gallery has two naves separated by a row of arches and forms three sides of a rectangle approximately 89 by 73 meters, open to the south. The vaults rest on travertine pillars, and light enters through small openings. The exact function is debated: it may have served as storage, as a covered passage, or simply as the foundation supporting the temples’ terrace.
It is one of the few forum cryptoportici open to visitors in Europe, alongside those in Arles, Reims and Bavay in France. The descent into the gallery, cool and quiet, contrasts with the bustle of the praça directly above.
The entrance is near the cathedral, and the visit can be combined with the treasury museum.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 30 minutes.
Best time
During the hot hours of summer, when the gallery is cool. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is located on praça Giovanni XXIII, next to the cathedral, about a 5-minute walk from praça Chanoux.
Tip
Walk to the end of one of the gallery’s arms to see the sequence of arches fading into the gloom.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Criptoportico forense
What is the cryptoporticus of Aosta?
A Roman underground gallery, with two aisles and arches, that lay beneath the colonnades of the forum's sacred area.
What was the cryptoporticus used for?
Its function is debated: storage, a covered passage, or a base for the temples' terrace.
Where is the cryptoporticus?
Beside the cathedral, on Piazza Giovanni XXIII, in the centre.