Column of Marcus Aurelius (Colonna di Marco Aurelio)

The Basics

This Roman victory monument in Piazza Colonna—once the northern boundary of ancient Rome—is covered with bas relief scenes that benefit from a guide. Join a tour for details; take a private or small-group walking tours of Rome that visits the column and provides skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Many historic city center tours by bike or Segway include the column and the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A stop at the Column of Marcus Aurelius is especially interesting for Roman history enthusiasts.

• Wear a hat and sunscreen as ancient Rome tours spend lots of time outside.

• Wheelchair users can access the square surrounding the column.

• To see the bas relief scenes at the top of the column, bring a pair of binoculars for an “up-close” view.

How to Get There

The Column of Marcus Aurelius is located in Piazza Colonna in the historic center of Rome, halfway between the Fountain of Trevi and Pantheon. The nearest transportation hub is Piazza Barberini, with a metro line A stop and a number of bus stops.

When to Get There

The best time to visit the Column of Marcus Aurelius is during mild spring or fall months, when Rome is less crowded. The column can be enjoyed on a daytime or evening tour, as it is illuminated at night.

Friezes on the Column of Marcus Aurelius

The 28 blocks of Carrara marble that form the Column of Marcus Aurelius are carved in astonishing detail, depicting scenes of expeditions, battles, the plunder of villages, and even a miracle storm that saved the Roman troops. Though the column is modeled after the earlier Trajan’s Column, the style of the reliefs is more dramatic, a reflection of the evolution of Roman art in late antiquity.

Ways to explore

Step onto Piazza Colonna—a smallish square behind the Camera dei Deputati (Chamber of Deputies), the lower house of the Italian Parliament—and the column is impossible to miss, as it soars high above with carvings so detailed they are visible from across the square. While you can easily find the column on foot and see the carving up close, walking tours give historical context and make it easy to visit other area landmarks.

Some walking tours through central Rome stop by the stately column and combine it with other attractions, such as the Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna), Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.

Accessibility

Piazza Colonna is flat but cobblestoned with sections that may prove challenging for wheelchair users.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reusable water bottle, map of Rome

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses

Not allowed

Climbing or touching the column, sitting or climbing on the protective barriers

Amenities

Restrooms inside the Galleria Alberto Sordi shopping mall, cafés around the square

Address

The Column of Marcus Aurelius is in central Rome, on the southern side of Piazza Colonna. It is easily accessible on foot and by public transportation. Driving in Rome’s center is best avoided, thanks to heavy traffic and alleyways around every corner, but golf cart tours offer a convenient option.

Driving

Piazza Colonna is on Via del Corso, a major thoroughfare that is—unfortunately for drivers—either highly trafficked or heavily restricted. To reach the square from Piazza del Popolo, skip Via del Corso and head south on Via di Ripetta and turn left on Via Borghese. Continue in the same direction on Piazza del Parlamento and connect with Via del Corso.

Public transportation

The nearest metro station to Piazza Colonna is Barberini in the square of the same name, served by the A line. From there, it’s a roughly 10-minute walk west to the square, or a short bus ride on the several lines running along Via del Tritone.

Best times to visit

Arrive in the early morning before the commuters. Sunset is an ideal time for people-watching locals on after-work strolls. Avoid the midday heat, tourist crowds, and traffic.

Best days to visit

To avoid the worst of the Roman crowds, visit midweek: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Best months to visit

Exploring Rome comfortably outdoors during the city’s sweltering summers is almost impossible. Visit during spring and fall for pleasant weather: April, May, June, October, or November.

Special events

The Chamber of Deputies, near Piazza Colonna, opens for free guided tours (booking required) once a month from October to June.