Velian Hill

In later times, the Velia was called Summa Sacra Via ("Summit of the Sacra Via") — since that road began there at its highest point — and was marked by the Arch of Titus and Temple of Venus and Roma.

[5] The hill is described by Dionysius of Halicarnassus[6] as ὑψηλὸν ἐπιεικῶς καὶ περίτομον (high and steep).

A primitive grave found in 1908 near the Arch of Titus lay at about 28 metres above sea-level, whereas virgin soil was found in the lowest part of the valley occupied by the Roman Forum at 3.6m, and in connection with the excavation of the Sepulcretum, at 10.63 metres.

[7] The original height of the ridge may have been somewhat diminished by the construction of the Domus Aurea.

[8] It is regularly mentioned in extant literature in connection with the Aedes Deorum Penatium (Temple of the Penates) and the Domus Valeriorum (House of the Valerii).