The Arch of Septimius Severus

The Arch was built in 203 AD. It was built to commemorate the victory of Emperor Septimius Severus over the Parthians and the Osreoni in 195 AD and 197 AD. The Arch was made of parts of Proconessian white marble from the Sea of Marmara, which was very abundant during the reign of Septimius Severus. The preservation of this exquisite monument has been described as one of the best in the Roman Forum. When the church that once stood conjoined to the Arch was removed, the owner of the two structures demanded that the Arch was not destroyed.

The Arch of Septimius Severus would have to have been of great significance to the owner and the Romans as neither of them wanted it to be demolished. The Arch was not to be destroyed as it was left as the only part of the church left, and therefore was significant to the people of that area. The victory of Septimius Severus was represented by this Arch, and was built in his honour.

The Arch of Septimius Severus is a link in many ways to the life of the ancient Romans. The hand carved artwork that has been designed by the Romans lets an insight into the knowledge and beliefs of these people of ancient Rome. This eye catching monument is significant because it is a part of history, and as it still stands today, it shows the ability of the designers and craftsmen, as they were able to create a structure which has lasted 1800 years. This Arch is a great way of recounting history, and is greatly significant to the ancient Romans, as it is to the Romans of today.