Arco di Riccardo

Arco di Riccardo is a Roman gateway in Trieste's old city district, built from light-colored stone and standing about 7 meters high. It represents the last remaining section of the ancient city walls that once enclosed the Roman settlement of Tergeste.

The arch was built in the middle of the 1st century BC and served as an entrance gate to the ancient city of Tergeste. Over centuries, it became integrated into the urban fabric as later structures were built against its eastern side.

The arch draws people to pause and photograph it while walking through the old city district. The exact origin of its name remains uncertain, though visitors can learn about competing theories from local guides.

The arch stands freely accessible in the city center and can be visited at any time without requiring admission. Late afternoon light offers the best conditions for viewing and photographing the stone surface.

The eastern side of the arch is today integrated into the wall of a modern building, showing how the city has transformed and reused its ancient structures over two millennia. This contrast between Roman stone and contemporary architecture makes the site a visible record of urban change.