Arch of Trajan

The Arch of Trajan, known locally as Arco di Traiano, stands as a majestic testament to Roman engineering and the enduring legacy of Emperor Trajan. Nestled at the port of Ancona, Italy, this triumphal arch is not only an architectural marvel but also a historical beacon that has witnessed the passage of centuries.

The History of the Arch of Trajan

The Arch of Trajan was constructed in the early 2nd century AD, around 100 AD, though the exact date remains a topic of scholarly debate. The arch was commissioned by the Roman Senate and people to honor Emperor Trajan for his significant contributions to the expansion and enhancement of the port of Ancona. This port improvement was a monumental project funded entirely by Trajan himself, aimed at providing a safer and more efficient gateway to Italy.

Designed by the famed Syrian architect Apollodorus of Damascus, the arch is constructed from Proconnesian marble, a fine white marble sourced from the island of Proconnesus in the Sea of Marmara. The arch’s proportions are notably slender and elegant compared to other Roman arches, and it boasts a single archway flanked by pairs of fluted Corinthian columns. This design choice not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also reflects the sophisticated architectural sensibilities of the time.

Architectural Features

One of the most striking features of the Arch of Trajan is its harmonious relationship with the sea. Situated on the mole of Ancona’s harbor, the arch was originally adorned with six bronze statues. Facing the sea were statues of Neptune, Mercury, and Portunus, deities associated with navigation and seafaring. On the landward side stood statues of Trajan, his wife Plotina, and his sister Ulpia Marciana. These statues symbolized the emperor’s connection to both the divine and the mortal realms.

The arch is also decorated with fourteen rostra, ship prows that symbolize Roman naval power. These rostra are strategically placed: four on each main façade and three on each side. Additionally, the keystones feature carvings of Tellus (Earth) and Oceanus (Ocean), further emphasizing the arch’s dual significance as a terrestrial and maritime monument.

Inscriptions and Dedications

The arch bears three inscriptions, originally crafted in bronze letters, which remain partially legible today. The central inscription honors Trajan for his contributions to the port, while the side inscriptions commemorate his wife Plotina and his sister Ulpia Marciana. These inscriptions not only celebrate Trajan’s achievements but also immortalize the emperor’s familial bonds and the Roman practice of venerating both leaders and their kin.

Medieval and Renaissance Transformations

Throughout the Middle Ages, the Arch of Trajan endured various transformations. In 839 AD, Saracen raiders stripped the arch of its bronze statues and inscriptions. Despite this, the arch remained a significant landmark, with medieval walls and structures incorporating it into their design. In the Renaissance, the arch played a pivotal role in the burgeoning field of archaeology, inspiring figures like Ciriaco Pizzecolli, whose work laid the foundations for modern archaeological study.

Modern Preservation Efforts

In the 19th century, significant efforts were made to preserve and enhance the area surrounding the arch. Engineer Michele Bevilacqua’s 1847 project saw the demolition of medieval walls and the creation of the Barriera Gregoriana, a neoclassical gateway that framed the arch and provided a grand entrance to the port. This project included the construction of a monumental fence and two small Doric temples, enhancing the visibility and prominence of the arch.

During the 20th century, the area around the arch saw further changes, particularly during the World Wars. Despite the challenges, preservation efforts continued, ensuring that the arch remained a focal point of Ancona’s historical landscape. Today, the arch stands proudly, a testament to the resilience of history and the enduring legacy of Roman engineering.

Visiting the Arch of Trajan

Visitors to the Arch of Trajan can marvel at its intricate details and imagine the grandeur of its original form. The arch’s location at the port offers a unique vantage point, with the sea on one side and the historic city of Ancona on the other. It’s a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike to delve into the rich tapestry of Roman history and architecture.

As you stand before the Arch of Trajan, you are not just witnessing a piece of ancient architecture; you are standing at a crossroads of history where the past meets the present. The arch invites you to explore the stories etched in its marble, to ponder the lives of those who walked beneath it centuries ago, and to appreciate the timeless beauty of Roman craftsmanship.

In conclusion, the Arch of Trajan is more than a historical monument; it is a symbol of Ancona’s rich heritage and the enduring legacy of one of Rome’s greatest emperors. Its elegant design, historical significance, and picturesque setting make it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this charming Italian city.