In December 2025, the Colosseo-Fori Imperiali underground station was opened in Rome. After several years of work, a station located under Via dei Fori Imperiali, directly next to the Colosseum, was added to the underground railway network. The station is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the world. This is thanks to the combination of modern architecture and archaeological exhibits.
The new Colosseo-Fori Imperiali station
The station was built between the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, on the axis connecting the most valuable monuments of ancient Rome. The new section of line C is about 3 km long and brings this line into the historic city centre for the first time. The most important element of the entire infrastructure is the underground passage to the Colosseo station on line B, which improves transfers and ensures the smooth flow of passengers in one of the busiest areas of Rome.
Technical parameters of Colosseo-Fori Imperiali
The construction of Colosseo-Fori Imperiali took approximately 13 years due to the exceptionally challenging archaeological conditions. The station extends over four underground levels, is approximately 150 metres long and up to 34 metres wide, with its lowest parts located more than 30 metres below street level. The work required precise engineering methods to reduce vibrations and protect the historic buildings above the excavations.
A metro station like a museum
During the works, 28 ancient wells, relics of houses, elements of water installations and everyday objects dating from the 5th to the 1st century BC, as well as finds from the 1st century AD, were discovered. Some of them were moved inside the station and made available to passengers as exhibits. Five exhibition areas have been created in the underground spaces, guiding users through the successive layers of the city’s history, from Republican water intakes to fragments of private baths from the time of the emperors.
Role in Rome’s transport system
Colosseo-Fori Imperiali has become one of the main hubs of Line C, which is operated by fully automated trains. After the opening of the new section, the line is approximately 21-22 kilometres long and has 24 stations, with plans for further expansion to approximately 29 kilometres and 31 stops. The new infrastructure has improved the quality of public transport in central Rome and facilitated access to areas on the outskirts. An additional and equally important aspect is the opportunity to see authentic historical artefacts hidden in underground display cases on a daily basis.
Source: comune.roma.it
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