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Arch of Galerius: A Triumphal Gateway Through Time

A majestic Roman monument in Thessaloniki, the Arch of Galerius commemorates imperial victory and showcases intricate ancient artistry.

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The Arch of Galerius, locally known as Kamara, is a prominent Roman monument in Thessaloniki, Greece, erected in the early 4th century AD to honor Emperor Galerius' victory over the Persians. Today, it stands as a captivating landmark, showcasing intricate marble relief panels depicting scenes from Roman military campaigns and imperial life.

A brief summary to Arch of Galerius

Local tips

  • Visit during the day to fully appreciate the intricate details of the marble relief panels.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Rotunda and the ruins of Galerius' palace to explore the broader historical context.
  • Take a stroll along Egnatia Street, where the arch is located, to experience Thessaloniki's vibrant city life.
  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Aristotelous Square, walk east along Egnatia Street for approximately 15 minutes. The Arch of Galerius is located at the intersection of Egnatia and Dimitriou Gounari streets. The walk is straightforward and passes by numerous shops and cafes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Thessaloniki New Railway Station, take the Metro Line 1 to Sintrivani station. The arch is a short walk from the station. A single metro ticket costs €3.50.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from the Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to the Arch of Galerius typically costs between €24 and €30 and takes approximately 16 minutes. A taxi from Aristotelous Square to the Arch of Galerius costs approximately €4 - €6.

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Discover more about Arch of Galerius

The Arch of Galerius, or Kamara, stands at the intersection of Egnatia and Dimitriou Gounari streets in Thessaloniki, Greece, marking a significant point in the city's rich history. Constructed in 298-299 AD and dedicated in 303 AD, the arch celebrated Emperor Galerius' triumph over the Sassanid Persians. This victory and the capture of their capital, Ctesiphon, underscored Thessaloniki's importance as a Roman administrative and military center. Originally, the structure was an eight-pillared gateway (octopylon) forming a triple arch, built with a rubble masonry core faced with brick and marble panels adorned with sculptural reliefs. The central arched opening measured 9.7 meters wide and 12.5 meters high, while the secondary openings were 4.8 meters wide and 6.5 meters high. The arch was strategically positioned on the Via Egnatia, the primary Roman road connecting Dyrrhacium to Byzantium, emphasizing the emperor's power and linking monumental structures within the city. Today, only three of the original eight pillars and portions of the masonry core remain. The surviving marble sculptures depict Roman soldiers in battle against the Persians, offering a glimpse into the artistic mastery of the era. One panel portrays Galerius attacking the Persian general Narses, while others showcase the imperial family, including Galerius' wife, Valeria. These panels highlight the glory of the Roman tetrarchy and Galerius' dominance. Located near the Rotunda and the ruins of Galerius' palace, the Arch of Galerius serves as a popular meeting point and a symbol of Thessaloniki. It has witnessed centuries of change, from the Byzantine era to Ottoman rule, and continues to draw visitors who marvel at its architectural beauty and historical significance.

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