Arco dei Gavi, Verona Arch

The Arco dei Gavi is an ancient Roman arch in Verona dating to the 1st century AD, originally erected for the Gavi family. It is notable as a privately commissioned monument from the Roman period and for surviving in substantial stonework.

The arch displays classical Roman architectural elements and sculptural details and has been the focus of conservation and reconstruction efforts. It was dismantled in the 19th century and later reassembled from original fragments in the early 20th century to restore its presence in the urban landscape.

Today the arch stands close to the Castelvecchio complex and is integrated into Verona’s historic centre where it forms part of walking routes that link Roman and medieval monuments. The monument is a compact site best viewed on foot within the old town.

• Ancient origin: Originally built in the 1st century AD for the Gavi family, it is one of the few Roman arches in Verona to survive in significant original material.
• Reconstruction: Dismantled in the 19th century and re-erected using original blocks in 1932, the arch today stands near Castelvecchio in central Verona.

The arch sits in Verona’s historic centre not far from Castelvecchio and the River Adige; it’s an easy walk from Piazza Bra (10-15 minutes) and is well signed for pedestrians.

• View the arch from the Castelvecchio bridge for an unexpectedly photogenic angle; the arch's profile reads best against Verona's brickwork.
• Keep an eye out for the original Latin inscription carved into the stonework - it names the Gavi family and hints at the arch's Roman provenance.