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Temple of the Dioscuri in Cori: Roman columns overlooking the Pontine Plain
Two Corinthian columns, nearly 7 metres high, have stood since the 1st century BC in the centre of Cori, in the province of Latina. They are the remains of the Temple of the Dioscuri, located in the forum of ancient Cora. From this vantage point, the view stretches across the Pianura Pontina (Pontine Plain). The architrave (epistyle) still bears the inscription dedicating the monument to Castor and Pollux, along with the names of those who financed the construction.
The remains of the façade
Two of the original six columns survive, showing traces of the original stucco coating. A third is embedded within the wall of a private house. The inscription names the commissioning magistrates: a rare detail, as historical records usually identify those who dedicated a temple to the gods, rather than those who authorised payments using funds from the temple treasury.
The cella and the Dioscuri
On the opposite side of the road lies the area where the cella (or naos) once stood. Fragments of a black and white mosaic floor are visible, along with traces of plaster painted in fake marble. This space once housed the statues of Castor and Pollux. Standing 1.90 m tall and carved from Parian marble, they were accompanied by horses 1.70 m in height. The recovered fragments are now preserved in the Museo della Città e del Territorio (City and Territory Museum).
