Arch of Augustus, Triumphal arch in Aosta, Italy
The Arch of Augustus is a Roman triumphal gate at the southeastern entrance of Aosta, featuring engaged columns topped with Corinthian capitals. The structure rises approximately 11 meters and spans a wide passage that once served as the main thoroughfare into the city.
The gate was built in 25 BC following a Roman military victory over the Salassi people and served as the southern entrance to the newly established Roman city of Augusta Praetoria. It remains one of the oldest structures of its kind still standing today.
The structure earned the name Saint-Voût during the Middle Ages because of a religious image of Jesus that was displayed here and drew pilgrims seeking blessing.
The monument sits in central Aosta and is easily reached on foot, with shops, restaurants, and hotels nearby for visitors who want to combine their visit with other activities. Morning hours offer the best conditions for viewing and photography due to lighter foot traffic and favorable lighting.
A wooden crucifix from 1449 hangs beneath the vault as a votive offering and is among the oldest surviving devotional gifts left at this location. The original rests in a museum, while a replica remains in place at the arch itself.
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