You have just ascended a wide axial staircase on the shorter side of the great podium facing the Colosseum. This entire platform originally measured 200 x 160 meters and occupied the top of the Caelian Hill. You see a long colonnade, called by the Romans the porticus Claudia, extending on all four sides of the temple complex. Its cool shade invites leisurely strolls and quiet conversation. Or you may prefer to enter the lovely arboretum that surrounds the temple proper (this plan of the temple complex will help you get your bearings).
Since this portico is no longer extant, the Roman portico on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem is shown here for purposes of illustration.
Stairs to Temple Complex