Temple of Augustus and Livia

In the heart of Vienne, France, stands a testament to Roman grandeur and architectural prowess—the Temple of Augustus and Livia (Temple d'Auguste et de Livie). This ancient marvel, dating back to the early 1st century AD, is a captivating relic of the Roman Empire's influence in Gaul. It was originally dedicated to the imperial cult, honoring Emperor Augustus and his wife Livia, and has since borne witness to a myriad of historical transformations. Today, it stands proudly as one of the best-preserved Roman temples in France, alongside the Maison Carrée in Nîmes.

The Imperial Cult and Roman Influence

The Temple of Augustus and Livia is a significant marker of the Roman Empire's shift from a republic to an imperial regime, centered around the figure of Augustus. The temple's dedication to Augustus and Livia underscores the emperor's profound influence in the region, particularly in the province of Gallia Narbonensis. This area saw numerous effigies of the imperial family, and the temple in Vienne was a monumental expression of this reverence.

In December 355, the temple gained further historical significance when the Caesar Julian visited it for a celebration in his honor. During the event, a garland of leaves fell from the temple's summit onto the imperial procession, which was interpreted as an auspicious omen, signaling Rome's favorable regard towards Gaul.

The Forum and Architectural Splendor

The temple was strategically positioned in the western sacred area of Vienne's forum, a bustling center of political, judicial, and economic activity. The forum's layout, with its tripartite axial composition, was typical of Roman urban planning, featuring a basilica to the east and monumental porticoes flanking the north and south sides.

The temple itself is a pseudo-peripteral structure, measuring 27 meters in length, 14.25 meters in width, and 17.36 meters in height, including a 9.70-meter-high colonnade. It stands on a podium 2.75 meters high, with six fluted Corinthian columns adorning its façade and extending along the sides. The rear colonnade is replaced by a wall, a feature known as sine postico. The temple's cella, or inner chamber, is accessed via a broad frontal staircase, leading through a vestibule framed by the grand columns.

A Temple Reborn

The Temple of Augustus and Livia underwent significant reconstruction, likely between 27-10 BC, with further renovations occurring a few decades later. The exact timing of this reconstruction remains a subject of scholarly debate. The temple's unique plan, surrounded by columns on three sides, is unparalleled in Gaul. The original structure, built from local stone, included a western wall, corner pilasters, and the first columns of the long sides. The later reconstruction introduced new materials, such as Seyssel stone and choin, and featured more naturally modeled Corinthian capitals.

The reconstruction likely occurred before Livia's deification in 42 AD, as the original dedication inscription was restored on the new frieze, with Livia's name added to the architrave. This suggests the temple's restoration was completed by the time of her divinization, ensuring the continuity of its imperial dedication.

From Temple to Church and Beyond

With the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the rise of Christianity, the temple was repurposed as the parish church of Sainte-Marie-la-Vieille, later renamed Notre-Dame-de-la-Vie. During the French Revolution, it became the Temple of Reason, and subsequently served as Vienne's commercial court, museum, and library. After extensive restoration efforts, the temple was returned to its Roman architectural form by 1852.

Today, the Temple of Augustus and Livia is celebrated for its remarkable preservation and historical significance. It offers visitors a glimpse into the architectural and cultural grandeur of the Roman Empire, standing as a timeless monument in the heart of Vienne. As you explore its majestic columns and intricate details, you'll be transported back to an era of imperial splendor and ancient rituals, making it an unmissable highlight of any visit to this charming French town.