Arch of Constantine (Arco di Costantino)

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.

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.

Ways to explore

Thanks to its proximity to the Colosseum and the Forum, the Arch of Constantine is included in most tours of ancient Rome. You can visit independently for free, but come with a guide to learn about the historic and architectural significance of this massive monument, erected in AD 315 to celebrate Emperor Constantine’s victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge.

Architecture fans should choose a tour that stops at the underground portion of the Colosseum, along with skip-the-line access to this famous amphitheater, the neighboring Forum, and other Palatine Hill highlights. Family-friendly tours make ancient sites more captivating for youngsters.

Accessibility

The arch is wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, water bottle, camera with zoom lens

What to wear

As there is little shade around the arch, and it can only be approached on foot, wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes.

Not allowed

Visitors are not allowed to approach the arch beyond the protective fence that surrounds its base.

Amenities

Public restrooms and gift shops located inside the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum are available to ticket-holders only.

Address

The arch is between the Colosseum and Roman Forum at the foot of the Palatine Hill in Rome’s center. It’s walkable from most main attractions in the historic center and near public transportation. It’s a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours.

Driving

The area around the Arch of Constantine is one of Rome’s most touristed—snarled traffic and limited parking make driving a hassle. Instead, take the metro, a taxi, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or an ancient Rome tour that includes transportation.

Public transportation

The arch sits across the street from the Colosseo station on Rome’s metro line B, which connects to line A at the main Termini train station. Tram line 3 and ATAC city buses 51, 75, 81, 85, 87, and 118 stop nearby.

Best times to visit

The arch is in the center of a small square with little shade next to the Colosseum. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid summer’s midday heat and crowds. In winter, choose a clear day.

Best days to visit

The Colosseum and Roman Forum are free to enter on the first Sunday of the month, when the area around the Arch of Constantine is particularly crowded. Instead, visit on a quieter weekday.

Best months to visit

This outdoor ancient landmark offers no shelter, so avoid the summer heat and winter chill if possible. Opt to visit in the spring and fall when the weather is temperate.

Special events

The Via Crucis procession led by the Pope on Good Friday passes through the Forum and past the Arch of Constantine on its way to the Colosseum, attracting thousands. Each April 21, Rome marks its founding with a costumed procession that passes nearby.