Heritage & monuments
Arch of Constantine
The Arch of Constantine is a triumphal arch in Rome dedicated to the emperor Constantine the Great. The arch was commissioned by the Roman Senate to commemorate Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in AD 312. Situated between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, the arch spans the Via Triumphalis, the route taken by victorious military leaders when they entered the city in a triumphal procession. Dedicated in 315, it is the largest Roman triumphal arch, with overall dimensions of 21 m (69 ft) high, 25.9 m (85 ft) wide and 7.4 m (24 ft) deep. It has three bay...
Arch of Constantine
This is the largest of the surviving Roman triumphal arches, built by the Senate to honor Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Milvian Bridge in AD 312. It stands on the ancient triumphal route between the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, and much of its interest lies in how it was built: alongside new Constantinian work, it reuses relief panels, columns, and statues stripped from earlier monuments to emperors like Trajan and Hadrian, giving it a patchwork quality that's worth a slow look rather than a quick photo.
Getting there
It sits right beside the Colosseum, in the heart of ancient Rome's monument cluster. From the city centre it's an easy walk from most central neighborhoods, or a short ride on Metro Line B to the Colosseo stop, which puts you within a couple of minutes on foot.
How long to spend
The arch itself can be seen properly in 15-20 minutes, since it's viewed from the outside as you pass through the archaeological park.
When to go
The surrounding area is heavily trafficked, as it's the natural approach point for the Colosseum. Early morning or later in the afternoon tends to be calmer for taking photos without crowds in front of the arch.
Combine it with
Its location makes it easy to pair with other sights in the same archaeological zone: the Arch of Titus is just 0.2km away, the Palatine Hill 0.3km, and the Temple of Vesta and Domus Aurea both around 0.4km. Most visitors take it in as part of a single walk through the Colosseum-Palatine-Roman Forum area rather than as a separate stop.
Sources: open data from Wikipedia and OpenStreetMap · Updated August 5, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
