Arch of Drusus Travel Guide

The Arch of Drusus, situated close to the first mile of the Appian Way and next to the Porta San Sebastiano in Rome, presents a captivating glimpse into the city's ancient past. Despite its name, the arch is not definitively linked to Nero Claudius Drusus, the renowned conqueror of Germania. The original Arch of Drusus was erected by the Senate in 9 BCE to honor Drusus, but the exact location of that arch remains uncertain, and it no longer exists.The existing arch is thought to date back to the 3rd century AD, when it formed part of the Antoninian Aqueduct, supplying water to the Baths of Caracalla. The structure consists of two columns that frame the facade and an architrave, above which a triangular tympanum is placed. Originally, the arch was covered in marble, but today only a portion of the structure remains. In the 5th century, under Emperor Honorius, it was integrated into the defensive walls connected to Porta San Sebastiano. The arch stands as a testament to Roman engineering, showcasing how they integrated infrastructure with both functional and commemorative structures. Exploring the Arch of Drusus offers a unique opportunity to connect with Rome's layered history and appreciate the architectural ingenuity of the Roman Empire.