Arch of Constantine

Interesting facts

1. 1

   Much of the arch's ornamentation was 'recycled' from older 2nd-century monuments, a practice known as spolia.

2. 2

   The inscription on the attic attributes Constantine's victory to the 'instinctu divinitatis' (divine inspiration), a phrase often debated by historians regarding his potential conversion to Christianity.

3. 3

   The battle depicted in the friezes celebrates the 312 AD conflict where Constantine became the sole ruler of the Western Roman Empire.

4. 4

   The monument serves as a visual record of changing artistic styles, transitioning from the classical relief work of the 2nd century to the more stylized 'Late Antique' art of the 4th century.

5. 5

   It is positioned along the Via Triumphalis, the historic route taken by victorious emperors returning to Rome.

6. 6

   The arch originally had statues of Dacian prisoners taken from Trajan's Forum placed on top of its eight columns.

7. 7

   The marble used for the structure originated from various Mediterranean quarries, showing the extent of Roman logistical reach.

8. 8

   It is the last of the major triumphal arches built in Rome during the imperial era.

Overview

The Arch of Constantine is the largest surviving Roman triumphal arch, situated between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill. Dedicated in 315 AD to commemorate Constantine the Great's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge, it stands 21 meters high. It is a classic example of 'spolia,' incorporating reused sculptural elements and reliefs from earlier monuments dedicated to Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius. The structure features three archways, with the central arch being significantly larger than the two lateral ones. It is constructed primarily of brick-faced concrete covered in white marble. The attic bears an inscription praising Constantine for his 'divine inspiration' in liberating the state. It remains a key component of the Parco Archeologico del Colosseo complex. The monument has undergone several restoration campaigns throughout its history to preserve its delicate marble reliefs.

Insider tips

• View the arch as part of the wider Colosseum archaeological site to understand its relationship to the surrounding forum.

• Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the peak heat and density of crowds in the immediate Colosseum square.

• The monument is best viewed from a distance to fully appreciate the scale of its three-part architecture.