The arch was commissioned by a wealthy local citizen named Gaius Julius Rufus as an act of public generosity.
It was originally situated at the end of a bridge over the Charente River that no longer exists.
The arch was moved block-by-block during the mid-19th century under the supervision of architect Prosper Mérimée.
The original location was precisely identified during excavations, which showed it sat at the bridgehead of the Roman road entering Saintes.
The structure features a double arcade, a relatively rare configuration for commemorative arches of its era.
The Arch of Germanicus is a Roman triumphal arch erected in 18-19 AD during the reign of Tiberius, dedicated to Germanicus, Tiberius, and Drusus. It was originally located on the right bank of the Charente River to mark the entrance to the Roman city of Mediolanum Santonum. Constructed from local limestone, the monument features two barrel-vaulted bays and a structure that originally spanned the main road from Lyon to the Atlantic coast. In 1843, the arch was dismantled and relocated about 15 meters to its current site on Place Bassompierre to facilitate urban road modifications. The structure includes a prominent Latin inscription on the frieze detailing its dedication. It is classified as a French Monument Historique and serves as one of the most significant Roman vestiges in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.
From the Place Bassompierre square, framing the arch against the backdrop of the Charente River.
View the arch from the elevated perspective of the nearby bridge for a better sightline of the inscriptions.
Combine the visit with a short walk to the Saintes Roman Amphitheatre located a short distance away.
Do not attempt to climb or touch the weathered ancient stonework to help preserve the monument.
