Arch of Augustus

The Arch of Augustus is a Roman triumphal monument built from white marble with four columns at its corners and positioned at the heart of Susa. The structure features intricate decorative elements including rose motifs carved into the cornice.

A local ruler of the Cottian Alps commissioned this monument at the end of the 1st century BC to honor the Roman emperor. Its construction marked a turning point in how Rome asserted its power over the mountain region.

The frieze shows scenes of a ritual sacrifice with animal offerings, preserving a glimpse of how people practiced religion in ancient times. These carved scenes let visitors today understand what mattered to the local population and how they honored their beliefs.

The monument is located in central Susa and can be easily reached from the main square. Visitors can access it throughout the year when the site is open to the public.

The structure displays numerous decorative corbels and panels that reveal careful craftsmanship and detailed planning. These architectural details are often overlooked by visitors but show the high level of Roman construction skill in the region.