Arch of Marcus Aurelius, Roman triumphal arch in Tripoli, Libya
Description
The Arch of Marcus Aurelius is a four-sided marble structure with eight openings arranged around an octagonal dome. The archway features decorated columns with griffins and sphinxes carved into its upper sections.
History
The structure was built in 165 AD to celebrate the victories of Emperor Lucius Verus during the war against Parthia. Its construction was funded and organized by the local magistrate Gaius Calpurnius Celsus.
Culture
The monument displays Roman craftsmanship through its four niches and finely carved reliefs featuring mythological creatures. This decorated columned structure reflects the aesthetic that residents experienced while passing through it daily.
Practical
The structure sits near the northeastern entrance to Tripoli's Medina and is accessible on foot. The location requires attention to upkeep, as weathering and visitor contact affect the ancient marble.
Did you know?
The structure is one of the last surviving landmarks from the ancient city of Oea and was crafted entirely from imported marble. This rare use of precious material shows the wealth and importance of the settlement during Roman times.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Tripoli).
Libya holds some of the Mediterranean world's most important ancient ruins. You can walk through Roman cities like Leptis Magna, where a 16,000-seat amphitheater still stands, or explore the Greek settlement of Cyrene, founded more than 2,500 years ago. Berber communities left their mark across the...
Tripoli Cathedral
1.4 km
Tripoli Castle
614 m
Red Castle Museum
672 m
Royal Palace of Tripoli
1.8 km
Archaeological Site of Sabratha
65.4 km
That El Emad Towers
984 m
Sidi Darghut Mosque
180 m
Roman theatre of Sabratha
65.4 km
People's Hall
3.2 km
Tripoli Zoo
4.6 km
Gurgi Mosque
46 m
Gurgi Mosque
49 m
Islamic Museum of Tripoli
2.6 km
Autodromo della Mellaha
11.9 km
Karamanly House Museum
315 m
Ahmed Pasha Karamanli Mosque
621 m
Museum of Libya
1.9 kmDarghouth Turkish Bath
158 m
Caramanli mosque
629 m
منارة طرابلس
484 m
Happy Land
12.7 km
Mosque
2.1 km
Temple of Antoninus, Sabratha
65.7 km
Tripoli Medina
332 m
House of the Tragic Actor, Sabratha
65.5 km
Temple of Isis, Sabratha
65.1 km
Roman Museum, Sabratha
65.6 km
Amphitheatre of Sabratha
64.6 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes