The Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is a triumphal arch located in Rome, Italy, situated between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill. It was built to commemorate the victory of Roman Emperor Constantine I (reign: 306-337) over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge on October 28, 312 AD.
The arch was dedicated in 315 AD, and its design incorporates elements from earlier monuments, including reliefs and statues from the time of Trajan, Hadrian, and Marcus Aurelius. The arch bears images of Sol Invictus because much of the structure’s decorations came from triumphal monuments the relief of those aforementioned emperors.
The arch is a prime example of the blending of classical and Christian imagery in the Late Roman period.
The Arch of Constantine stands at about 21 meters tall, 25.9 meters wide, and 7.4 meters deep. It consists of three archways, with the central arch being the largest. The arch is decorated with sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from the life of Constantine the Great, as well as military victories and pagan deities.
