![]() The arch celebrates the triumph of the emperor Constantine over Maxentius. It is a synthesis of Constantine’s ideological propaganda. A vengeful Constantine had the body dragged from the water and the head chopped off and displayed in Rome as a gruesome warning to anyone else who might be harbouring rebellious thoughts. The Arch of Constantine, built on the route followed by the triumphal processions, in the stretch between the Circus Maximus and the Arch of Titus, is the largest honorary arch that has come down to us. Interestingly Maxentius himself drowned also. Next, Constantine secures victory as the enemy soldiers drown in the river. In one scene, Constantine and his army charge Verona’s city walls as one unfortunate (or clumsy) enemy soldier topples over the edge. The most lively scenes show the battle itself. Another shows a lion which hasn’t been as lucky and is already dead.Ībove the arches, strip-like friezes tell the story of Constantine’s victory. The boar is still alive and kicking and putting up a fight. Half are decorated with hunting scenes and half with scenes of sacrifices to various gods. The 8 large, circular, medallion-like rondels caught my eye. Some of the carved figures were originally Hadrian but were re-carved to resemble Constantine. Interestingly, some of the artwork is recycled and was taken from other sources. The carved reliefs are clearly visible and are preserved. Standing at a colossal 21 m high, it is faced in marble and was built to commemorate the Emperor Constantine’s victory over his rival, Maxentius in 312AD. You can get very close and can walk around it but a metal railing fence stops you from walking right under the arches. It is free and you can see it easily without having to enter the paid area of the Roman Forum. It stands alongside the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. This giant triumphal arch is the largest in Rome, with three arched corridors.
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