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.

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User Reviews

Brad (13 months ago)
I have always enjoyed seeing the Arch of Septimius Severus situated in the northwest corner of the Roman. This is one of the most complete structures found amongst so many old building ruins of Ancient Rome. It dates back to 202-03 AD and celebrates Emperor Septimius Severus military victories over the Parthians several years earlier. Made of marble, it is 26.5 metres tall, 23 metres wide and adorned with reliefs of battle scenes and other ornamentation. It includes a large centre arch along with two small passageways. You can see it up close from ground level with the paid entry ticket for the Roman Forum. However, you can see it quite wall from the public walkway up to Piazza del Campidoglio. From here you are really close and and have even higher viewing vantage point.

Anthony Manmohan (14 months ago)
First black Emperor who invited England and tried to take Scotland without any real success. He died in York, England UK

Robert Chomicz (2 years 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 (2 years ago)
Impressive how the arch stood the passing of time and still looks strong while the forum laid in ruin.

Pamela Howlett (2 years 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.

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