The Deification of Julius Caesar

Statue of Julius Caesar, Via dei Fori Imperiali

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On January 1st 42 BCE, the Senate officially deified Julius Caesar, who had been assassinated two years earlier. Caesar duly became the first Roman ruler to become a god. 

It was also decreed that a temple be built in the Forum, with official games and a new priest to look after the cult.

​The Temple of Divus Julius was dedicated by Augustus on August 18th 29 BCE. 

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