Arco di Costantino
Vespa tour to the Arch of Constantine: discover ancient Rome on a Vespa with a unique view of the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine! Explore Rome by scooter with a stop at the Arch of Constantine: an unforgettable tour between history and adventure in the Eternal City. Bike tour to the Arch of Constantine: discover Rome on two wheels and stop to visit one of its most fascinating historical symbols! Tour by tuk-tuk between Colosseum and Arch of Constantine: a unique experience in the heart of Rome, with stops at the most iconic sites.
What you need to know about the Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is one of Rome’s most iconic monuments, located near the Colosseum. It was erected in 315 AD to celebrate Emperor Constantine I’s victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Ponte Milvio in 312 AD. This triumphal arch, about 21 meters high and 25 meters wide, is decorated with reliefs and sculptures depicting war scenes and images from other military campaigns. Many of the decorations were reused from older monuments, such as those of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius, thus creating a work that synthesizes various periods of Roman art. The arch has three fornixes (passages): a larger central one and two smaller side ones. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Rome, as it is also a symbol of the transition from Roman imperial art to late antique art.
Structure and Materials: The arch is constructed of marble and travertine and features Corinthian columns on either side of the passages, creating a monumental appearance. The structure is decorated with reliefs and sculptures depicting episodes of victories and moments of imperial celebration.
Reuse of Ancient Materials: One of the unique aspects of the Arch of Constantine is the reuse of architectural and sculptural elements from earlier monuments. This was typical of the late antique period for both symbolic and economic reasons. Decorations from the arches of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius add different artistic details to the arch and represent a symbol of continuity between emperors.
Christian Symbolism: Despite being a pagan monument, the Arch of Constantine marks a turning point in Rome’s history, as Constantine’s victory over Maxentius is seen as favored by the Christian God. Constantine’s legendary vision before the battle (“In hoc signo vinces” – “With this sign you will win”) is considered a turning point toward the Christianization of the Roman Empire.
Decorations and Scenes: Scenes on panels tell of various campaigns and triumphs, including hunts and religious ceremonies. Reliefs on panels depicting Constantine show a less detailed and more symbolic style, indicating a shift from Classical to Late Antique art, more oriented toward symbolism and spirituality.
Strategic Location: The Arch is located along the Via Triumphalis, the traditional route followed by victorious generals to enter Rome and head toward the Forum. Its location next to the Colosseum makes it one of the most photographed and visited monuments in the city.
Curiosities
Recycling Ancient Art: The Arch is an example of “spolia,” or the reuse of materials and decoration from older monuments. The motive is thought to have been both economic, to save resources, and symbolic, to recall the glory of previous emperors. The heads of some sculptures, originally representing other emperors, were even replaced with the face of Constantine.
Dedicatory Inscription: The large inscription on the top of the arch states that Constantine received help from “divinity” to win over Maxentius, but does not specifically mention the Christian God. This ambiguity may reflect the time of religious transition, when Christianity was not yet the official religion of the Empire.
Astronomical Symbols: Above the arch are representations of the Sun and Moon, placed to guard the triumphal passage. This is a rare example of a representation of celestial bodies on a Roman arch and may symbolize divine protection over Constantine’s achievements.
Mixed Styles: The decorations and reliefs are a mix of different styles, from the classical art of the reliefs of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius to the late antique art found in the additions of Constantine. This contrast between classical details and simpler lines marks the change in Roman aesthetics at the time.
The Arch and Visibility: In the past, the Arch of Constantine was clearly visible from much of the city, as it was located in an open area. Today, its location next to the Colosseum makes it easily accessible to visitors, but it also overshadows the amphitheater. Nevertheless, its location remains a historical reminder that tells the story of Roman triumphs.
Constantine’s “Dream”: Legend has it that Constantine dreamed of a cross in the sky with the inscription “In hoc signo vinces” (“With this sign you will win”), and therefore decided to adopt the Christian symbol for his battle against Maxentius. Although the Arch does not overtly display Christian symbols, this episode is closely related to the victory celebrated by the monument.
Ancient and Modern Restorations: The Arch has undergone various restorations over the centuries, including some attempts in the medieval period. The most significant restoration occurred in the 19th century, when many of its parts were repaired to prevent collapse.
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