Umbilicus Urbis Romae

The Umbilicus Urbis Romae, once revered as the navel of the city and the center of the Roman Empire, is a relic of ancient architecture. Located in the Roman Forum in Rome, this small temple marked the starting point of the Roman military roads and was considered a mystical connection between the upper and underworld.

The origins of the Umbilicus Urbis Romae date back to the Republican era, when it served as a cult site for offerings to the gods of the underworld. According to historical tradition, Romulus is said to have erected the Umbilicus urbis, also known as the Mundus, with the support of Etruscan builders.