The Restorations of the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the three reconstructions of the temple of Jupiter Capitolinus. Examining the archaeological, textual, and visual evidence for the appearance of the Catulan, Vespasianic, and Domitianic versions of the temple, it charts how the Capitolium became physically larger and materially grander with each phase. In this way, it is possible to see how the temple retained its nominal identity and accumulated historical associations, while the architecture of the original building was not preserved. Particular attention is also given to the consistent retention of the original footprint of the building in the successive restorations. Contrary to previous interpretations that emphasize political and ideological reasons for this decision, by examining the involvement of haruspices the case is made that the continuity was singularly an act of religious veneration.