Arco di Traiano
Benevento (BN)
FamousHistory & archaeology
The story
Golden marble carved dense with reliefs, the arch that celebrated Trajan still marks the entrance to the road that led toward Brindisi and the East.
Access
FREE
The story
The Arch of Trajan of Benevento was erected between 114 and 117 AD to celebrate the emperor and the opening of the Via Traiana, the variant of the Appian Way that shortened the route towards Brindisi. Come down almost intact, with all its sculptural reliefs, it is considered one of the best-preserved Roman triumphal arches in the world — thanks also to its incorporation, in Lombard times, into the city walls as the 'Porta Aurea' (Golden Gate).
What to see
The arch is a story in images: the reliefs that cover its faces illustrate the policy and deeds of Trajan, from public works to military campaigns. It is the symbol-monument of Roman Benevento, to be read carefully panel by panel.
How to get there
- Car needed
Public transport. Il trasporto pubblico in quest'area interna è limitato: i collegamenti in autobus sono radi e non sempre giornalieri. In pratica il luogo è difficilmente raggiungibile senza un mezzo proprio; per eventuali autolinee e per la stazione ferroviaria utile più vicina, verifica su Unico Campania e sui canali ufficiali degli operatori regionali (AIR Campania). · fonte: Fallback onesto — area interna, routing transit non disponibile
Tips
It is right in the centre, observed freely in the open: take your time to decipher the reliefs (a guide or a panel helps). To line up with the Roman theatre, the Ponte Leproso and the church of Santa Sofia for a tour of ancient Beneventum.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Arch of Trajan of Benevento built?
Between 114 and 117 AD, to celebrate the emperor Trajan and the opening of the Via Traiana.
Why is the Arch of Trajan so well preserved?
Also because in Lombard times it was incorporated into the city walls as the 'Porta Aurea', which protected it over the centuries.
What do the reliefs of the Arch of Trajan tell?
The policy and deeds of Trajan, from public works to military campaigns, in a series of carved panels.
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