Porta Praetoria

Porta Praetoria is a Roman gate in Aosta featuring three distinct openings: a central passage for wheeled traffic and two lateral entries for pedestrians integrated into the city's defensive walls. The structure displays the layered construction techniques used by Roman builders with carefully positioned stone elements.

The gate was built around 25 BCE following the Roman military victory over local tribes under commander Terenzio Varrone and became part of Augusta Praetoria's original defenses. Its construction marked the establishment of Roman control in the Alpine region through a newly founded settlement.

A chapel dedicated to the Holy Trinity was built during the medieval period atop the gate's defensive walkway, creating a layered religious and military structure. Visitors walking through can still observe how this addition shaped the monument's appearance and purpose over time.

Visitors can explore the gate and surrounding Roman walls on foot year-round, with the structure easily accessible from the city center's main paths. Guided tours are available for those seeking detailed explanations about the architectural features and construction methods.

The eastern facade still features original marble slabs while the interior contains substantial puddingstone blocks, revealing how Romans selected different materials based on visibility and structural needs. This contrast between the formal exterior and practical interior reflects ancient construction priorities.