Portico d'Ottavia

The Portico d'Ottavia is an ancient Roman structure located in the heart of the Roman Ghetto, close to the Tiber River and the Theatre of Marcellus. Originally built by Augustus in honor of his sister Octavia, it was part of a larger complex that enclosed two temples dedicated to Jupiter and Juno. What remains today are fragments of its monumental entrance, including a triple arch and a portion of its colonnade. These ruins are particularly significant because they were incorporated into later medieval structures, such as the Church of Sant'Angelo in Pescheria, which was built into the remains of the portico. Throughout its history, the Portico served various functions, including a fish market in the medieval period, giving the adjacent church its name. Today, it stands as a striking reminder of Rome's layered history, acting as a gateway to the historic Jewish Quarter and inviting contemplation on the city's continuous transformation.