Arch of Titus Dimensions

The Arch of Titus is a triumphal arch located in the Roman Forum, Rome. It stands at an impressive height of , making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The arch was built to commemorate the victory of Emperor Titus over Judea in 70 AD, and its design is a testament to the engineering skills and artistic flair of the ancient Romans.

The Arch of Titus bears an inscription in its upper portion, which reads: ‘The Senate and People of Rome / To the Deified Titus Vespasian Augustus / Son of the Deified Vespasian’. This public dedication was a clever way to cement the Flavian Dynasty – relative newcomers to Roman politics – into the annals of history.

The arch was strategically placed at the summit of the Via Sacra, where the triumphal procession entered the forum, and in full view of the Colosseum. The arch commemorating the victory was erected later by Domitian in 81 AD, he ordered the construction of a triumphal arch to commemorate the victory of his brother and father.

The celebratory triumph held on their return to Rome was like nothing Rome had seen – resplendent with spoils from Judea including furniture and trappings from the Temple of Herod – the most sacred temple of the Jews, destroyed by Titus’ troops. The prisoners of war followed in chains, trudged through the forum for all to see, they would soon be on sale at the slave market.

A long train of carriages snaked through the forum displaying the spoils of war – gold, silver and precious objects – statues as well as animals and sometimes even trees taken from foreign lands. These parades could last for days with gifts, money and food being given out to the crowd.

The triumphal parade was a public affair, the whole city gathered to see the victorious emperor and his spoils enter the city. He rode in a four-horse chariot with the goddess victory (a slave dressed with wings) through the streets of Rome in a procession with his army (unarmed), captives, and the spoils of his war.

On the day of his triumph, the general or emperor wore a crown of laurel and a purple, gold-embroidered triumphal toga picta (painted toga) that identified him as near-divine or near-kingly. He was even known to paint his face red with cinnabar (mineral pigment) to resemble Jupiter.

In conclusion, the Arch of Titus is an iconic landmark in Rome, built to commemorate a significant victory in Roman history. Its impressive dimensions and intricate design make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city.

Arch of titus dimensions