Arch of San Lazzaro, Parma

The Arch of San Lazzaro is a Baroque triumphal gateway on Via Emilia Est in Parma featuring three main openings adorned with elaborate stucco ornaments and decorative details. The structure blends Baroque and Neoclassical features crafted by various Italian artisans throughout its design.

The gateway was built in 1628 by architect Giovanni Battista Magnani to commemorate the marriage between Duke Odoardo Farnese and Margherita de Medici. It marks an important moment in Parma's dynastic history and political connections of that time.

The panels on the structure depict key moments from Parma's past, including the founding of the Roman settlement and pivotal local conflicts. These carved scenes allowed residents to see their city's story told in stone.

The gateway sits along Via Emilia Est, a main street at the eastern edge of the city where it is easy to reach and view from the outside. Its location allows visitors to see the monument in relation to how it served as a city entrance point.

The gateway underwent three major restorations in 1714, 1805, and 1825, with each repair reflecting the architectural style of its time. These restoration campaigns show how successive generations left their own aesthetic preferences on the monument.

Location: Parma

Inception: 17 century

Architects: Giovanni Battista Magnani

Architectural style: baroque architecture, Neoclassical architecture

GPS coordinates: 44.79594,10.34789

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:21