Emperor Domitian and the Temple Construction

Abstract

One of the most notable aspects of Domitian’s reign was the emphasis that he placed upon the erection and restoration of public buildings: especially temples and shrines. One of the major factors contributing to this building program was the vast number of fires that had occurred between AD 64 and 80, especially in the Capitoline and Palatine areas... Such was the impact of these fires that he erected altars to Vulcan, possibly in each region of Rome, in an attempt to prevent the calamities reoccurring... The sheer magnitude of the program undertaken by Domitian surpassed simple reconstruction and restoration. The program had become an unparalleled effort to create a capital deserving of the Roman Empire... His motivation in beginning such a program indicates Domitian’s need to justify his power, and to ensure safety from any threat to his person by placing trust in certain deities. That Domitian undertook such extravagant schemes reflects the extent of his anxieties concerning his personal safety, and maintaining the legitimacy of his position.