Arch of Septimius Severus, Rome, Italy

The white marble Arch of Septimius Severus at the northwest end of the Roman Forum is a triumphal arch dedicated in AD 203 to commemorate the Parthian victories of Emperor Septimius Severus. and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta.

After the death of Septimius Severus, his sons Caracalla and Geta were initially joint emperors. Caracalla had Geta assassinated in 212; Geta's memorials were destroyed and all images or mentions of him were removed from public buildings and monuments. Accordingly, Geta's image and inscriptions referring to him were removed from the arch.

The arch was raised on a travertine base originally approached by steps from the Forum's ancient level. The central archway, spanned by a richly coffered semicircular vault, has lateral openings to each side archway, a feature copied in many Early Modern triumphal arches. The Arch is about 23 metres in height, 25 metres in width and 11.85 metres deep.

References:

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User Reviews

Robert Chomicz (4 months ago)
Quite possibly the best preserved triumphal arch in Rome and perhaps the most beautiful. The arch was built at the tail end of Rome's imperial zenith and the detail as well as the high level of execution reflect Rome's sophistication at the time. You should not miss this one while at the Forum.

Marius Bancila (6 months ago)
Impressive how the arch stood the passing of time and still looks strong while the forum laid in ruin.

Pamela Howlett (7 months ago)
This arch was built by the Emperor Septimius Severus in celebration of his military victories. Located in the midst of the Roman Forum. It was built in 203 CE and it is remarkably preserved.

Antonio Gogić (11 months ago)
Arch of Septimius Severus, 203 AD. Kr. Made of white marble. Full of interesting details. Some damage due to age, but a good part can be seen, it is well preserved. Near the entrance to the Foro Romano.

Albin Sebastian (13 months ago)
The Arch of Septimius Severus at the northwestern end of the Roman Forum is a white marble triumphal arch dedicated in 203 A.D. to commemorate the Parthian victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his two sons, Caracalla and Geta, in the two campaigns against the Parthians of 194-195 A.D. and 197–199 A.D.

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