Basilica of Maxentius

The Basilica of Maxentius on the edge of the Forum Romanum is one of Rome's most dramatic ruins — completed in 312 CE, it was the largest building in the Forum and the last great Roman civic basilica ever built. Its enormous concrete barrel vaults tower over every other ruin in the Forum and inspired Renaissance architects including Michelangelo. Today the partially surviving vaults serve as a breathtaking open-air backdrop for summer classical concerts.