Arch of Septimius Severus
A monumental marble arch in the Roman Forum, celebrating African Emperor Septimius Severus's Parthian victories.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Arch of Septimius Severus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental marble arch in the Roman Forum, celebrating African Emperor Septimius Severus's Parthian victories.
"A stunning example of Roman imperial architecture, rich with history and intricate detail."
📸 Hidden Photo Spot
Find a secret view! Descend the small street right of Campidoglio for a unique perspective of the Forum and the Arch.
🚶♂️ Explore the Forum
The Arch is a gateway to the vast Roman Forum. Allow ample time to wander and absorb the ancient atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Triple Archway
Northwestern end of the Roman Forum
A monumental marble arch with three passageways, showcasing intricate carvings of military triumphs and captured enemies.
Reliefs of Parthian Campaigns
Sides of the arch
Vivid sculptural panels depicting Roman soldiers, battles, and the emperor addressing his troops, offering a glimpse into ancient warfare.
The Emperor's African Heritage
Inscriptions and historical context
A powerful symbol of Septimius Severus, Rome's first African emperor, whose reign extended from North Africa to Britain.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Understanding the Emperor's Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Hidden Photo Spot
Find a secret view! Descend the small street right of Campidoglio for a unique perspective of the Forum and the Arch.
🚶♂️ Explore the Forum
The Arch is a gateway to the vast Roman Forum. Allow ample time to wander and absorb the ancient atmosphere.
💡 Learn about Severus
Discover the story of Septimius Severus, Rome's first African emperor, and his impact on the empire. +1
🏛️ Architectural Marvel
Admire the triple-arched design and detailed marble reliefs that tell tales of ancient victories.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Hidden Photo Spot
Find a secret view! Descend the small street right of Campidoglio for a unique perspective of the Forum and the Arch.
🚶♂️ Explore the Forum
The Arch is a gateway to the vast Roman Forum. Allow ample time to wander and absorb the ancient atmosphere.
💡 Learn about Severus
Discover the story of Septimius Severus, Rome's first African emperor, and his impact on the empire. +1
🏛️ Architectural Marvel
Admire the triple-arched design and detailed marble reliefs that tell tales of ancient victories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Arch of Septimius Severus's grandeur and historical significance, particularly its detailed reliefs and its connection to Rome's first African emperor. While its location within the bustling Roman Forum means it can get crowded, the architectural beauty and the stories it tells make it a memorable highlight for many.
"The Arch of Septimius Severus, located at the northwestern end of the Roman Forum, is a grand triple-arched monument erected in 203 CE to commemorate the military victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons, Caracalla and Geta, over the Parthian Empire. Constructed from travertine and brick and faced with Pentelic marble, it stands over 20 meters high and 23 meters wide, featuring Corinthian columns and a richly decorated attic inscribed with a dedicatory text.
Its sculptural reliefs are particularly remarkable, vividly illustrating scenes of war, triumph, and the emperor addressing his troops, including depictions of captured enemies, liberated cities, and the spoils of conquest. The arch also reflects the political climate of the time, as Caracalla’s subsequent damnatio memoriae erased Geta’s image and inscriptions from the monument. A centerpiece of the Forum, the Arch of Septimius Severus exemplifies Roman imperial propaganda, architectural mastery, and artistic excellence, standing as a testament to the power and grandeur of the Severan dynasty."
Kento Masuda
"The Arch is a monumental white marble triumphal arch dedicated in 203 AD. It was built to commemorate Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons, Caracalla and Geta, for their victories in two Parthian campaigns (194–195 and 197–199). After Severus’s death, Caracalla had Geta assassinated and ordered his memory erased (damnatio memoriae), leading to the removal of Geta’s name and images from the arch.
Standing about 23 meters high and 25 meters wide, the arch was raised on a travertine base and originally approached by steps. Its richly decorated design includes a central vaulted archway with lateral openings, a feature later copied in many triumphal arches, as well as elaborate reliefs depicting military campaigns.
Part of the broader Severan dynasty’s tradition of monumental building, the arch remains one of the most prominent and well-preserved structures in the Forum, symbolizing both imperial triumph and the political struggles within the ruling family."
Abdulkarim ALZarouni
"At the north-west end of the Forum, at the foot of the Capitoline, the Arch of Septimius Severus stands like a carved billboard for Rome’s eastern wars. Dedicated in AD 203, it honours Severus and his sons Caracalla and Geta for victories over the Parthians. A high central vault is flanked by two smaller arches; above, four large panels show sieges, surrenders and wagonloads of spoils from cities such as Nisibis and Ctesiphon, with prisoners carved on the pedestals below. The main inscription once named all three rulers, until Caracalla had Geta murdered and his name cut out. Medieval cart traffic left ruts in the bases, but the arch still announces triumph and erasure at the Forum’s entrance."
Loo Yeo
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arch of Septimius Severus is located at the northwestern end of the Roman Forum. You can reach it by walking from the Colosseum or by taking public transport to nearby stops like Piazza Venezia. Many visitors find it easiest to access as part of a broader exploration of the Roman Forum.
Yes, the Arch is a prominent landmark at the northwestern edge of the Roman Forum, near the Capitoline Hill. It's hard to miss as you explore the ancient site.
Driving directly to the Roman Forum is restricted. It's best to park in a nearby garage or use public transportation and walk. The area is largely pedestrianized.
Many visitors approach the Arch from the Via dei Fori Imperiali, entering the Roman Forum. Alternatively, a hidden street to the right of Campidoglio offers a unique, less crowded viewpoint.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ancient terrain. Consider downloading an offline map of the Roman Forum to help navigate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Arch of Septimius Severus is located within the Roman Forum, which requires an entrance ticket. It's advisable to book your Roman Forum tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
The Arch is accessible during the opening hours of the Roman Forum. These hours vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, there is no separate fee for the Arch itself. Your ticket to the Roman Forum covers entry to see the Arch and its surrounding ruins.
The Roman Forum, including the Arch, is typically closed after sunset. Special evening tours or events might occasionally be available, but standard access is during daylight hours.
Discounts for the Roman Forum tickets may be available for EU citizens under 18, and free entry is often provided on the first Sunday of the month (though this can change). Check the official ticketing site for details.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
For the best light and fewer crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light can make the marble structure truly glow.
While you can see the Arch itself in about 15-20 minutes, it's best enjoyed as part of a larger visit to the Roman Forum, which can take several hours.
It commemorates the victories of Emperor Septimius Severus and his sons over the Parthians. It's also notable for the later erasure of Geta's name and image due to his assassination by his brother Caracalla.
Yes, guided tours of the Roman Forum often include detailed explanations of the Arch of Septimius Severus. You can also find audio guides or use self-guided apps.
Besides the main viewpoint, a hidden street to the right of Campidoglio offers a unique, less crowded perspective. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' before sunset or shortly after sunrise offers the most beautiful light for photographing the Arch, highlighting its marble details and creating dramatic shadows.
Try capturing the Arch from a slightly lower angle to emphasize its grandeur. The hidden street near Campidoglio provides a unique, elevated perspective.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire structure and its surroundings. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions or to ensure sharpness.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited within the Roman Forum and most historical sites in Rome due to preservation and safety regulations.
Its intricate reliefs, imposing scale, and historical significance make it a compelling subject. The contrast between the ancient marble and the Roman sky is also striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make it an adventure by turning the visit into a 'scavenger hunt' for specific carvings. The story of the brothers Caracalla and Geta, and how one tried to erase the other, can also be a captivating tale for older children. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the Forum terrain is uneven, and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the main facade, explore the less-obvious angles. A tip from locals suggests a hidden street near Campidoglio for a unique, elevated viewpoint that captures the arch with the broader Forum landscape. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the arch's full scale, while telephoto lenses can isolate specific relief details. Be mindful of the crowds and consider visiting during off-peak hours for unobstructed shots.
🌍 History Buffs
Pay close attention to the detailed reliefs that offer a visual chronicle of ancient warfare and imperial triumph. The subsequent erasure of Geta's name and image adds a layer of political intrigue and family drama to the monument's history, illustrating the volatile nature of Roman imperial power.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The African Emperor: Septimius Severus
Severus's military campaigns were extensive, and the arch specifically commemorates his victories against the Parthian Empire. The detailed reliefs adorning the monument vividly depict these triumphs, showcasing Roman military might and the subjugation of eastern enemies. This monumental arch served as a powerful piece of imperial propaganda, reinforcing his authority and celebrating his military successes to the citizens of Rome and the wider empire.
Beyond his military achievements, Severus's legacy is also intertwined with the complex dynamics of his family. His sons, Caracalla and Geta, were co-emperors, but their relationship was fraught with rivalry. After Severus's death, Caracalla had Geta assassinated and ordered a damnatio memoriae, a condemnation of memory, which led to Geta's name and image being chiseled out of many monuments, including this very arch. This act of fratricide and erasure adds a layer of tragic intrigue to the arch's historical narrative.
Architectural Significance and Artistic Detail
The arch's true artistic merit lies in its richly sculpted reliefs. These panels, located on the attic and above the side arches, narrate the story of Severus's Parthian campaigns in vivid detail. Visitors can observe scenes of Roman soldiers crossing rivers, engaging in battle, and the triumphant procession of captured kings and spoils of war. The intricate carvings provide invaluable insights into Roman military tactics, attire, and the visual language of imperial power.
Despite the passage of nearly two millennia and the later defacement of Geta's inscriptions, the Arch of Septimius Severus remains remarkably well-preserved. Its presence at the entrance to the Roman Forum makes it a striking introduction to the ancient city, a powerful reminder of Rome's imperial grandeur and the enduring legacy of its emperors. The way light plays on the marble, especially during the golden hours, enhances its dramatic presence.
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