The name 'Riccardo' is considered by historians to be a corruption of the term 'Arco di Cardo', referring to its location near the city's cardo maximus, or primary north-south road.
The arch consists of a single vault and was originally part of a larger defensive wall system built under Emperor Augustus.
Despite centuries of urban expansion, the arch remains in its original structural position from the Roman period.
The arch features remnants of ornate carvings, though much of the original detail has been eroded by centuries of exposure.
Archaeological excavations around the square have revealed Roman-era house foundations integrated into the surrounding architecture.
The Arco di Riccardo is a Roman triumphal arch dating back to approximately 33 BC. It stands in the heart of the Trieste Old Town, built as one of the gates in the city's ancient Roman walls known as Tergeste. Constructed from limestone, the arch reaches a height of 7.2 meters and a width of 5.3 meters. It is situated in the Piazza del Barbacan, an area that historically served as a gateway to the Roman city. The structure is one of the oldest Roman monuments remaining in Trieste. Local legend links the name to Charlemagne, though historical evidence confirms it is a Roman-era construction. It remains a focal point of the historic district, integrated into the urban fabric of modern Trieste.
From the center of the Piazza del Barbacan, capturing the arch framed by the surrounding 18th-century yellow-toned buildings.
Visit during the evening to see the arch illuminated against the surrounding historic architecture.
Combine your visit with a short walk to the nearby Roman Theatre of Trieste.
Explore the narrow, winding alleys of the Città Vecchia neighborhood branching out from the square.
Do not attempt to climb or lean on the ancient limestone structure to ensure preservation.
