Arch of Constantine
Arch of Constantine, Triumphal arch near Colosseum, Italy.
Description
The Arch of Constantine is a three-arched Roman monument in the Celio district of Rome, Italy, standing between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill. The structure displays Corinthian columns and a wealth of reliefs distributed across its facade, depicting scenes from battles and imperial ceremonies.
History
The Senate dedicated the monument in 315, three years after Constantine defeated Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge and gained control of Rome. Later emperors maintained the structure, and it remained largely intact throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Culture
The monument carries Latin inscriptions praising Constantine's victory and rule, while reused reliefs show different emperors in similar poses. Visitors can compare the contrasting styles of the inserted artworks directly, as older works stand beside newer fourth-century carvings.
Practical
The site stands freely accessible in the open air and can be viewed from outside at any time without requiring a ticket. Early morning hours offer quieter conditions and better light for photos, while late afternoon casts longer shadows.
Did you know?
The monument served as the finish line for the Olympic marathon in 1960, with Ethiopian runner Abebe Bikila passing barefoot under it to win. This event brought the ancient Roman structure into modern sporting history, linking two different eras at a single location.
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Rome preserves more than 2,000 years of architectural history within its city limits, maintaining ancient temples and amphitheaters beside Renaissance churches and Baroque piazzas. The Roman Forum displays ruins from the first century BC through the fourth century AD, including government buildings...
Triumphal arches document military and historical events of their time. These monuments to victories and commemoration stand in cities around the world. The structures combine architectural elements with historical documentation through reliefs, inscriptions, and sculptures. The collection includes...
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