He
emerges from the stone, two-story dwelling on Palatine Hill and hurries down
the steep steps towards the Forum Boarium. Glancing at the replica
of the Hut of Romulus, he is reminded of the city’s humble origins. He is proud to work in such an impressive home
in one of the wealthiest areas of the city and holds his head high as he joins
the other slaves on their way to the cattle market.
As he enters the Forum Boarium,
the slave pauses for just a moment to survey the scene. What first catches his eye is the grandeur of
the River Tiber, with its bridges and pons aemilius. From a distance he can catch a glimpse of the
Capitoline Hill, another impressive area of the city boasting many wealthy
households. While the slave hurries
through the Forum to fetch meat for his master’s meal, the bustle of the market
surrounds him, with the chaos of traders and shop owners selling their
goods. He passes the sturdy temples of
Fortuna and Mater Matuta; noting how the Forum Boarium is not only a cattle
market and a harbor, but also a sacred space.
He also admires the beauty of the Round Temple and its many columns. He sighs happily despite the busy day ahead
of him and feels grateful to live in such a city.
