Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino)
Via di San Gregorio, Campitelli, Rome, Lazio, 00186
The basics
The imposing Arch of Constantine was erected in AD 315 to celebrate Emperor Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge that took place three years earlier. Thanks to its close proximity to the Colosseum and Forum, this ancient monument is included in most ancient Rome walking or Segway tours and shore excursions, and visiting with a guide is the best way to learn about the historic and architectural importance of this massive monument. For a deep dive into Roman architecture, you can opt for a tour of the Arch of Constantine that also includes a visit to the underground portion of the Colosseum along with skip-the-line access to this famous amphitheater, the neighboring Forum, and other highlights of the Palatine Hill. Travelers with kids can choose a family-friendly tour to make these ancient sites more captivating for young visitors.
Things to know before you go
- The Arch of Constantine is located outdoors in the square between the Colosseum and the Forum, so wear a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes if visiting on a walking tour.
- Set in the middle of a paved square, the arch is easily accessible to wheelchair users.
- The arch is encircled by a protective wrought-iron fence, so visitors can get close but not actually pass through.
- Looming next to the Colosseum, the arch makes for a classic Roman backdrop. Be sure to bring your camera!
How to get there
The Arch of Constantine is located between the Colosseum and Roman Forum at the foot of the Palatine Hill in the center of Rome. The nearest metro station is Colosseo on metro line B.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The arch is located in the center of a small square with little shade next to the Colosseum, so visit in the early morning or late afternoon in the summer to avoid the midday heat and crowds, and on a clear day if visiting in winter.
The Largest and Latest Arch in Rome
At 69 feet (21 meters) tall, the Arch of Constantine is the largest triumphal arch in Rome, and the latest of those that still stand in the city. The monument has three arches, and the largest in the center spans the ancient Via Triumphalis, the route used by conquering emperors when returning to the city. The arch is decorated with reliefs taken from second-century monuments that celebrate victories by earlier Roman emperors, as well as inscriptions praising the achievements of Constantine.
- Things to do in Lake Bracciano
- Things to do in Lake Bolsena
- Things to do in Assisi
- Things to do in Siena
- Things to do in Naples
- Things to do in Capri
- Things to do in Pompeii
- Things to do in San Gimignano
- Things to do in Sorrento
- Things to do in Florence
- Things to do in Pisa
- Things to do in Bologna
- Things to do in Lazio
- Things to do in Umbria
- Things to do in Tuscany
- Palatine Hill (Palatino)
- Case Romane del Celio
- Rome Basilica di Santi Giovanni e Paolo
- Domus Augustana
- Palatine Museum (Museo del Palatino)
- Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)
- Colosseum
- House of Livia (Casa di Livia)
- House of Augustus (Casa di Augusto)
- Arch of Titus (Arco di Tito)
- Basilica di Santa Francesca Romana
- Roman Forum (Foro Romano)
- House of the Vestal Virgins (Casa delle Vestali)
- Basilica of Santi Quattro Coronati (Basilica dei Santi Quattro Coronati)
- Santi Cosma e Damiano Church (Chiesa dei Santi Cosma e Damiano)