Trajan's Column (Colonna di Traiano)

The Basics

Trajan’s Column tells the story of war triumphs via an intricate frieze that spirals up the column, running chronologically from base to top. The column was originally topped with a statue of Emperor Trajan, but it was replaced with a sculpture of Saint Peter in the 16th century by Pope Sixtus V. The column contains a staircase leading to a viewing platform, but the stairs are closed to visitors; to see the bas relief carvings up close, visit Rome’s Museum of Roman Civilization, which displays plaster casts of the scenes.

The bas relief scenes on Trajan’s Column are difficult to interpret, so join a tour with a guide who can explain the frieze in detail. Private and small-group walking tours of ancient Rome visit the column, as do tours by bike or Segway. Most ancient Rome tours also include skip-the-line access to the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Ancient Rome tours require a significant amount of time outside, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.

• The column is visible only from the outside, and is accessible to wheelchair users.

• The column is lit at night, so can be seen during either a daytime or night tour.

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

How to Get There

Trajan’s Column is located on the side of Quirinal Hill adjacent the Trajan’s Forum area along Via Quattro Novembre, a five-minute walk from Colosseo metro station (line B).

When to Get There

Visit Trajan’s Column during early spring or late fall, when the temperatures are mild in Rome, and crowds are smaller. This sight can be enjoyed during a daytime or nighttime tour, as the column is illuminated at night.

Friezes in the Museum of Roman Civilization

Roman history enthusiasts can see the entire frieze cycle up close at the Museum of Roman Civilization in the outlying EUR quarter of Rome. Plaster-cast replicas of the battle scenes are on display in horizontal rows at eye level, along with a vast collection of original pieces and casts of artifacts dating from the founding of Rome to the fourth century.

Ways to explore

Trajan’s Column tells a story that spirals up the column, running chronologically from base to top. There is a staircase to a viewing platform, but the stairs are closed to visitors—to see the carvings up close, visit Rome’s Museum of Roman Civilization (closed until 2026), which displays plaster casts of the scenes.

The column’s artwork can be difficult to interpret, but guided tours can offer insight into its history. Walking tours of ancient Rome often stop by the column, as do tours by bike or Segway. Most ancient Rome tours also include visits to the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum (Foro Romano).

Accessibility

The area around the column is paved, flat, and technically wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Binoculars or a camera with zoom capabilities, sunscreen, guidebook (or self-guided tour app) for assistance

What to wear

Hat, comfortable walking shoes

Not allowed

Touching, climbing, or otherwise interacting with the monument

Address

Trajan’s Column is halfway between the Roman Forum and the Pantheon. It’s likely that you’ll pass through the area at some point during your Rome travels—whether on foot, on two wheels, or with a tour.

Driving

Simply put, driving in central Rome isn’t recommended: There’s limited parking, and you may wind up paying fees in its Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL). If you must drive, there are various parking garages around a 15-minute walk away.

Public transportation

Take metro line B towards Laurentina and get off at either Cavour or Colosseo station. From there, the tower is a 5–10-minute walk away.

Best times to visit

Early mornings tend to offer a more peaceful viewing experience, and you’ll get photos with smaller crowds milling about.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, but it’s easy to stop by the column whenever sightseeing locally.

Best months to visit

Spring (April and May) is ideal for weather that’s pleasant but not too hot, making it comfortable to walk around Rome’s many outdoor archaeological areas, including Trajan’s Column.

Special events

There are no festivals centered around Trajan’s Column itself, but the Museum of the Imperial Fora occasionally hosts exhibitions—it’s adjacent to the column.