Description of the Temple (Reg VIII, Ins 7, 28) The temple dates from the 2nd century BC and was extensively rebuilt by N. Popidius Celsinus after the earthquake of 62AD. It was dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, whose cult was spreading throughout the Roman Empire. ,, .. The temple, which is built on a raised podium, has a porticoed entrance with niches on either side of the entry to the cella. The main altar was beside the steps (pictured left) with a second altar to the north. A series of living quarters for the priests opens off the south wall of the portico, while the west wing is almost completely occupied by a large hall with five arched entrances. .. This hall was where those initiated in the cult probably met. The walls are frescoed with five panels of sacred subjects in Egyptian style and images of Io in Egypt and Argos. The remains of an acrolythic statue were found in front of this room. .. .. On the north side of the complex is a small temple with a stairway leading down to an underground cistern containing the sacred waters of the Nile. .. The facade (right) has a broken triangular pediment and a frieze with two processions of priests converging towards the centre. Mars with Venus and Perseus with Andromeda are shown in relief on the exterior side walls.

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