Triumphal Arch of Constantine in Rome: description, history and interesting facts. Triumphal Arch of Titus - memory of the capture of Jerusalem Description of the triumphal arches in Rome

The triumphal single-span arch of Titus is located on the ancient Sacred Way near the Roman Forum - the famous square in the center of Rome. The building commemorated the entry of the victor into the city with trophies and prisoners, and today is considered one of the best examples of Roman architecture.

Story

The triumphal arch of the emperor Titus in Rome was erected in honor of the emperor Titus, who managed to conquer Jerusalem in 66-70. The construction of the arch was completed after his death under Domitian, the younger brother of Titus. The arch is located on a hill, and its white appearance is perfectly combined with the color of the sky. Through the arch, the Colosseum and the Roman Forum are clearly visible.

In the Middle Ages, the arch of Titus became part of the fortification and was destroyed. Restoration work was carried out in 1821 at the request of Pope Pius VII. For the new arch, they no longer used marble, but travertine - limestone of the tuff rock, widely used by the Romans in construction. In addition, another inscription appeared, proving that it was Pius VII who carried out the work.

On the facade of the arch are four Victorias - the goddess of Victory. The span is decorated with bas-reliefs depicting the historical feat of the emperor. There are Roman legionnaires, the Temple of Jerusalem and Titus himself. Above the span, to this day, you can see an inscription telling about the war of those times.

Appearance

Thanks to the efforts of architects and restorers, the arch of Emperor Titus today looks almost the same as two millennia ago. The only thing that has sunk into oblivion is the statue of the emperor, which previously towered over the building. Externally, the arch has strict forms and at first glance it may seem modest. But that's what makes her a subject of admiration. The semi-columns that decorate the arch are the first striking example of a composite order, a popular element of architecture.

The Arch of Titus is a single arch with a cylindrical vault and is replete with images that are carved on the relief of the building. The arch is at the end of the Sacred Way that connects the Palatine Hill with the Capitol. Honored guests of Rome entered the Roman Forum along this road, triumphal processions and religious festivals took place.

Near the arch, you can see the remains of the podiums of nearby buildings, where trade and state affairs were previously conducted.

Above the main cornice there is an attic, on which a dedicatory inscription is visible: "The Senate and the people of Rome to the divine Titus Vespasian Augustus, son of the divine Vespasian."

architectural features

Three bas-relief sculptures inside the arch depict:

• Emperor on a chariot.
• triumphant march.
• Deification of Titus.

The uniqueness of the paintings is that on the one hand the image is profile, and on the other hand it conveys all three dimensions, preserving their natural dimensions. The triumphal campaign depicts the Romans so realistically that it seems as if they were dressed in clothes and lined up against the wall. Opposite is an equally interesting picture - Titus riding a chariot, he is accompanied by lictors - a special kind of civil servants in Rome.

The carriage is driven by the goddess Roma - the personification of the city of Rome as the ruler of the universe. And the emperor is deified by Victoria, the goddess of Victory. The author conveyed movement in the picture. The horse is captured several times, which creates an animation effect.


The Arch of Titus in Rome describes the story of the victory and deification of the Roman emperor. The last image symbolizes the departure of Titus to another world and his becoming God. It can be seen if you go inside the building and raise your head up - riding an eagle, Tit flies to a new kingdom.

Full of historical and cultural attractions. Each architectural masterpiece tells about important events in the centuries-old history of the capital of Italy. One of the unique creations of heyday architecture is located near the majestic Colosseum.

Arches in honor of the winners

Valiant commanders who returned victorious after a long war were always greeted in the most solemn manner. Ancient Rome was no exception. Since ancient times, special stone structures were erected in honor of the victors, in which their feat was immortalized. Courageous warriors proudly drove into the city through the constructed arches, where they were solemnly greeted with honors by the locals.

However, Constantine, which will be discussed in the article, was not completed at the time of the victorious return of the emperor. This is the only building in Rome erected after the victory in the civil war, because most often such buildings were created in honor of the triumph over an external enemy.

Emperor Constantine and his merits

The impudent and ambitious Constantine from childhood wanted to become an emperor, and for this purpose he went to any lengths, removing those who were objectionable and hindering him from his path. The father of the young man - a famous commander - before his death transfers his powers to his son, and the Roman soldiers proclaim Constantine their emperor in advance.

At that time, the cruel despot Maxentius, who was hated by the city dwellers, ruled in Rome. A valiant warrior dreaming of the throne, who has chosen Christianity as his religion, sends his army to the enemy across the Alps. Knowing that Maxentius' forces far outnumber his army, Constantine prays for a long time, waiting for some heavenly sign.

sign from above

In the annals there is a mention of a miracle that struck the enemy armies and surprised Constantine himself. After his requests for help in the upcoming battle, a cross from the sun's rays appears in the sky, and supposedly the inscription "Conquer by this" becomes visible in the clouds. The future emperor was confused, not knowing what to do, and at night Christ comes to him in a dream, urging him to go to war against the pagans and restore Christianity throughout the vast empire.

30-year-old Constantine, inspired by signs, goes into battle and defeats the tyrant's large army. In 312, the head of Maxentius was brought to Rome so that all the inhabitants looked at the defeated despot, and Constantine himself sat on the long-awaited imperial throne.

Transfer of the capital

Only 2 years later, the Triumphal Arch of Constantine dedicated to the victory appears. Rome paid for such a long wait for the emperor by moving the capital to the city of Byzantium, which became a Christian religious center, and the ruler himself was canonized. Even the mention of all the feats of arms on the huge arch did not stop the young emperor, who did not appreciate such a belated attention.

The largest arch

The triumphal arch of Constantine, erected with the money collected by the Senate and the people, is the "youngest" building of its kind. The monumental structure consists of 3 spans, the largest - the central one - and the winner was supposed to solemnly enter on a decorated chariot. The gigantic size and thickness of the marble arch make it one of the largest in the world. On both sides, the powerful building is surrounded by columns, the walls are decorated with exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes of victories of the valiant emperor.

Borrowing from other monuments

It is known that decorative statues and medallions transferred from other buildings were used to decorate the arch. The bas-reliefs dedicated to the victory of Constantine were actually removed from a historical monument erected in honor of the victory of another glorious commander, Marcus Aurelius. Two-meter medallions, located between the columns, described the events associated with another emperor, only the head of the ancient Roman ruler Hadrian was replaced with the image of a fearless winner.

Such borrowing of elements from other historical monuments is explained by the fact that the Arc de Triomphe of Emperor Constantine in Rome was built in a very short time. Although many do not agree with this version, considering the unusual "eclecticism" as a simple lack of funds. Researchers who have carefully studied the documents of those eras agree that the huge structure needed elements that would give it a special status, and therefore the design of the arch was carried out in such an unusual way. Be that as it may, the monument of amazing beauty amazes with the power and magnificence of all living people.

Lavishly decorated masterpiece

The triumphal arch of Constantine in Rome, whose architecture was copied from a similar structure, was erected in such a way that it seems to everyone that it rests solely on mighty columns. Their lavishly decorated reliefs depict scenes of the captivity of wild barbarians by Roman soldiers. Above the central span of the arch rises a sculptural image of the goddess of victory - Victoria. These decorative ornaments date back to the reign of the conqueror of the pagans.

On the sides, the Triumphal Arch of Emperor Constantine is decorated with medallions, on which the deities of the Moon and the Sun race in chariots. The internal and external surfaces of the monument dedicated to the main triumph of the emperor are filled with sculptural works.

Immersion in ancient history

The triumphal arch of Constantine is surrounded by a high fence so that tourists from all over the world do not steal the ancient masterpiece of world culture for souvenirs. It must be said that yellow marble suffers greatly from weather conditions and exhaust gases.

Thousands of visitors see amazing pictures every day, plunging into ancient history with long wars and bright, significant victories. The impressive building allows everyone to touch eternity, to forget about the vanity of the mortal world.

The era of prosperity of Rome was marked by numerous victories of its rulers and troops. The people were delighted with the greatness of their commanders and not only sang odes to them, but also erected triumphal arches in their honor, which grew into a special type of architecture. With the help of them, the victorious battles of the Roman army were praised. In total, there were 350 arches throughout the Roman Empire, and in Rome itself there were 55.. Even today, some of them are preserved in excellent condition. On Forum Square there are two such historical monuments, the most famous is the triumphal arch of Titus. In the future, it became the prototype of many similar structures.

Reasons for creating a historical monument

In 70 AD Israel rebelled against the Roman Empire. At first, the rebels pushed the Roman legionnaires out of their lands, but another legion was sent from Rome to help, led by the commander Vespasian. He quickly reversed the situation and captured the main local rebel, who later changed his name to Josephus Flavius ​​and described this rebellion in a book called The Jewish War.

After such a victory and for many of his merits, Vespasian soon became emperor, left the Jewish lands and went to Rome, and the title of commander was given to his son Titus. He continued to hold the siege of Jerusalem for another five months, until famine began in the city. This was the last straw, the city lost its positions and after the invasion of the Romans was destroyed and plundered by them. All valuables were stolen, and people were killed or sold into slavery, some were taken prisoner. After that, the fortress of Masada, in which the remaining conspirators were hiding, held out for another three years, but also fell.

The triumphal arch of Emperor Titus was built after his death. His brother Dominian had a hand in its creation, under whose leadership it was erected in 81 AD. This arch served as a pedestal for a monument to the emperor, made of bronze and crowned with the goddess of victory - Victoria.

In the Middle Ages, this grandiose structure became part of the defensive wall, in order to use it, it was necessary to slightly rebuild its side parts. And after the end of hostilities, Pope Pius VII in 1821 instructed to restore the arch, but not quite the right material was selected for this. They decided to use travertine, which proved to be a reliable building material, it was built from, while the base of the arch was made of marble.

There are two inscriptions on the arch:

• one - a laudatory ode, exalting the achievements of Emperor Titus, was beaten out during the creation of the arch;
• the second - serves as a reminder that the original appearance of the arch was restored under the leadership of Pius VII, it was applied during the restoration of the monument.

Description of the monument

The triumphal arch of Titus is located in an advantageous place in Rome, standing next to it on one side you can see the Roman forum, and on the other the Colosseum.

The height of the monument is 15.4 meters, its width is 13.5. The arch made in it is 4.75 meters deep and 5.33 wide.

The appearance of the arch may seem modest, it has strict forms, but there is a special admiration for its architectural proportions.

The arch is decorated with semi-columns, various reliefs are made around it, the most interesting is hidden inside the span. It shows three actions:

1. The triumphal procession of Emperor Titus through Rome, along with the captured Jerusalem trophies, which are carried on their shoulders by legionnaires.
2. Chariot with Titus, driven by the goddess Roma. Four horses are harnessed to the wagon, lictors are in front of them. And the goddess Victoria lays a wreath on the triumphant's head.
3. The departure of the emperor to another world and his rebirth into a deity.

It is noteworthy that this arch was erected by captive Jews, whom Titus took prisoner, later they became the progenitors of the Jewish dynasty in Rome.

Triumphal arches were built by the ancient Romans for solemn ceremonies of the entry of the victorious commander into the city - triumphs. Several similar monuments are well preserved in the old part of the city. The arches were traditionally decorated with trowels filled with bas-reliefs and laudatory inscriptions, which makes them a real “gateway” to the history of Ancient Rome.

Arch of Titus (Arco di Tito)

The Arch of Titus is the oldest of the two remaining arches in the Roman Forum. It was built between 81 and 85 years. n. e., to commemorate the capture of Jerusalem and the victory over the Jews. Titus captured Jerusalem in 70 CE. e. with the help of four legions, and after the fall of the fortress of Masada in 72 AD. e. the uprising was completely crushed.

The inscription on the arch

The 15-meter arch is located in the Roman Forum, at the highest point of the Via Sacra. Inside it are two panels with reliefs. One depicts a triumphal procession with trophies - a seven-branched candelabra or menorah, silver trumpets and a table of bread. Another shows Titus in a chariot, accompanied by the goddess Victoria and Roma.

Interesting fact! The inscription on the frieze, which reads "The Senate and the people of Rome (dedicate or erect this arch) to the divine Titus Vespasian Augustus, son of the divine Vespasian", was originally bronze. The reliefs were also painted, and the arch itself was crowned with a bronze quadriga.

Restoration

In the XI century. the arch of Titus was combined with a fortress built by the Frangipani family, who helped preserve the monument. In 1821 it was restored by Giuseppe Valadier. Parts of the outer sides were rebuilt between 1822 and 1823 using tufa instead of marble so they can be distinguished from the original.

How to get there

The Arch of Titus can be found on the east side of the Roman Forum near the Colosseum. Take the metro (Coliseum stop): line B. To visit the forum you need to pay 12 EUR. It is better to buy tickets in advance.

Arch of Septimius Severo

The arch of Septimius Severus was erected in 203 in honor of the Roman emperor Severus. It is one of the three remaining triumphal arches of the Roman Forum. It was built in honor of the victory of the emperor of the North in Parthia (now partly Iran and Iraq).

Arch

The arch has 23 m in height and 25 m in width, as well as three passages: the central one is 12 m, the rest are 7 m 80 cm. Initially, a staircase passed through the central arch. In the IV century. the road has replaced it.

Embossed panels and inscriptions

The relief panels at the top depict the various stages of the war between the Romans and the Parthians. Other panels show the Roman capture of the barbarians.

Interesting fact! Initially, the arch was crowned with a bronze quadriga with statues of the emperor of the North and his sons - Caracalla and Geta. Bronze inscriptions on the arch were dedicated to Septimius Severus and both of his sons, but after the death of his father, Caracalla killed Geta and erased his name from the arch.

Restoration

Arch of Septimius Severus is a well-preserved monument of the Roman Forum, and all thanks to the fact that in the Middle Ages it was combined with the old church.

The church was later moved to another location, but it still protected the arch from destruction. Although parts of other monuments such as the Colosseum were used to build Renaissance palaces, the Arch of Septimius Severus remained intact.

During the Middle Ages until the 18th century, when the excavations of the Roman Forum began, most of the arch was covered with soil and debris. Today it is one of the most unique and impressive Roman monuments.

How to get there

The Arch of Septimius Severus can be found in the Roman Forum, near the Colosseum. Take the metro (Coliseum stop): line B. To visit the forum you need to pay 12 EUR.

Arch of Constantine

Next to the Colosseum stands the Arch of Constantine, built at the beginning of the 4th century to commemorate the emperor's victory over Maxentius. She remained relatively unharmed.

Constantine's victory

During years of civil war, the victory of Constantine's army over the numerically superior army of Maxentius at the Battle of Milvus Bridge in 312 finally brought peace to the Roman Empire. To commemorate this unforgettable victory, the Senate awarded the emperor with a triumphal arch. It was built in 315 AD. e.

The large arch with three aisles is almost 26 m wide and 21 m high. During construction, many parts of the old structures were reused, which was common at the time.

Interesting fact! The decorations on the central and lower parts of the arch were created especially for her. The frieze shows that Constantine's army led Maxentius' troops into the Tiber. The decoration itself is noticeably lower quality than that which was in the era of Hadrian and Trajan. The artistic level in the time of Constantine was much lower than in the past, which is symbolic of the decline of the Roman Empire.

Emperor Constantine

Constantine believed that his incredible victory was due to the help of the Christian God. Eventually, during his reign, Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. In 325 a.d. e. Constantinople became the capital of the empire.

How to get there

The Arch of Constantine is located near the Colosseum, at Via di San Gregorio. You can get to it by metro line B (Coliseum stop). You don't have to pay for entry.

The triumphal arch of Constantine is one of the largest and best preserved of the times of ancient Rome. Unlike the arches of Septimius Severus and Titus, it can be viewed for free by walking around. You won't be able to get through it.

It is one of the most famous ancient Roman buildings, a vivid example of ancient architecture, a symbol of the decline of the great Roman Empire.

History reference

Unlike other triumphal arches, Konstantinov's symbolizes not a victory over an external enemy, but a triumph in a civil war. In October 312, Constantine utterly defeated the army of Mark Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge, showing himself to be an excellent strategist.

There is a legend that before this most important battle, Constantine had a sign: in a dream he saw the sign of the cross. He took the Christian symbol with him into battle and won a victory with it. Later, Constantine, named the Great, declared Christianity the sole religion of the empire and moved the capital to Constantinople.

The arch was built for three years and finished in 315. A squat monumental structure 21 meters high was erected, consisting of three spans, with a facade length of about 26 meters and a width of the end sides of 7.5 meters. Eight Corinthian columns of Numidian marble stood out on the frontal sides of the arch. Above them were statues of Dacians, made of marble of a different breed - light, with purple veins. The main part of the building was made of massive white marble blocks.

Decor

The builders took the decor for the arch from pre-existing Roman buildings: the creators of such a grandiose structure had little time to sculpt it. Three years for that era was considered a very short time. Historians suggest another explanation for this fact - the symbolic association of Constantine with the great rulers of the past. On some elements of the decor of the arch, images of earlier ruling emperors are guessed - they were given a resemblance to Emperor Constantine.

Attic

Eight statues for the attic arch were taken from . Eight bas-reliefs on the attic were transferred from another, previously destroyed arch from the time of Marcus Aurelius. The marble frieze was also borrowed - it was divided into four fragments and installed above the small arches and inside the main span. On these decorations, you can recognize military scenes from the time of Trajan. The medallions placed above the side arches depict hunting scenes of Emperor Hadrian.

Today, the Arch of Constantine is considered the most famous of the ancient Roman arches and the best preserved. It stands on the ancient road Via Triumphalis, between and. This arch has become a clear model for many of the later triumphal structures built in the world.

Entrance to this attraction is free.

How to get there

The nearest stop is Colosseo metro (line B).
You can get to Arka by bus:
51, 75, 85, 87, 118, No. 2 to the Colosseo stop;
75, 85, 87, 118, С3, №2, №10 - to Celio Vibenna.
By tram 3, 8 - to Piazza Del Colosseo.

How do I save on hotels?

Everything is very simple - look not only on booking.com. I prefer the RoomGuru search engine. He searches for discounts simultaneously on Booking and 70 other booking sites.