Arch of Trajan (Benevento)

The Arch of Trajan in Benevento is a Roman triumphal arch in Campania, Italy, erected in the early 2nd century AD to commemorate Emperor Trajan. It stands at a key historic route through Benevento and is one of the most complete Roman arches in Italy.

The monument is richly decorated with high-relief panels showing imperial and civic themes and includes a dedicatory inscription across the attic. Many of the original reliefs survive and are studied for their narrative and iconographic detail.

Built around 114-117 AD in connection with Trajan’s public works, the arch marked the importance of Benevento as a road hub on routes such as the Via Traiana. Over centuries the arch was maintained and incorporated into the medieval and modern urban fabric of the city.

Situated at the eastern entrance to Benevento, the arch is easily accessible from the historic centre and stands adjacent to the main thoroughfares that follow ancient road alignments.

• Date and preservation: Erected in the early 2nd century AD, the arch is notably well preserved with original relief sculpture visible on multiple sides.

What to See #

• Relief panels: A series of carved relief panels on the arch's faces depict imperial ceremonies and civic scenes from Trajan's reign and are a primary reason for the monument's scholarly importance.
• Inscription: An attic inscription runs across the top of the arch and records its dedication to Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century AD.