The altar was constructed prior to the Temple of Saturn in the sixth century BCE and remained in use to appease the god Saturn until the collapse of the Roman Empire.[1] It was erected by the Pelasgians in honour of Saturn, the first god of the capitol, which was named Saturnia to honour him.[2] Ancient sources state that the altar of Saturn is situated nearby another altar dedicated to god Dīs Pater and goddess Proserpina; that altar is believed to have hosted the Saturnalia festival.[2] The altar of Saturn is rectangular and measures 3.95 by 2.8 metres (13.0 by 9.2 ft). It was constructed from blocks of tuff.[2]