The Roman Forum in Zadar, the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea, represents the heart of the ancient city of Iader. Built in the 1st century BC, the forum was the main gathering place for citizens, soldiers, merchants, and religious figures. It was established by Emperor Augustus, and inscriptions from the 3rd century attest to the completion of its construction. The forum measured 90 x 45 meters and was surrounded by porticos with galleries on the upper level, while shops and workshops were located beneath the porticos. Today, the steps, pavement, and monumental column, which in the Middle Ages served as a pillar of shame, have been preserved. Remains of an altar were found at the site of the former Capitol. The forum remains an important symbol of the city, and its significance continued through the construction of the Church of St. Donatus and the Archbishop’s Palace on its foundations. It is one of the most important archaeological and cultural sites in Zadar.