Decennalia, Victory column at Roman Forum, Italy
The Decennalia is a victory column in the Roman Forum with a marble base displaying relief carvings of ceremonial scenes and ritual processions on all sides. The preserved base contains detailed depictions of senators, priests, and sacrificial ceremonies that reveal the formal practices of the Roman state.
This monument was built in 303 CE during Diocletian's first visit to Rome to mark the tenth anniversary celebration of the Tetrarchic Caesares. Its construction came at a moment when power was shared among multiple rulers and such monuments demonstrated the stability of this governing system.
The base displays two winged Victories holding a shield with inscriptions, representing the connection between military success and Roman religious traditions. These carved figures show how Romans linked their military achievements with their spiritual beliefs.
The monument stands near the Arch of Septimius Severus and is easily reached on foot while walking through the Forum. The carvings are best viewed by taking time to examine all four sides of the base, particularly on sunny days when light brings out the details more clearly.
The original monument consisted of five columns representing the two Augusti, two Caesares, and Jupiter, reflecting the complex power structure of the Tetrarchy. This five-column arrangement was an unusual choice that emphasized how Romans visually expressed the hierarchical relationships between their rulers.
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