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Arc of Marcus Aurelius: Tripoli's Roman Jewel

Discover the Roman legacy in Libya: the Arch of Marcus Aurelius, a majestic monument in Tripoli's Old City, rich in history and architectural beauty.

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The Arch of Marcus Aurelius, a Roman triumphal arch dating back to 165 AD, stands as a testament to the Roman Empire's influence on the city of Oea, now Tripoli, Libya. Located near the entrance to the Medina, it's a remarkable survivor from the ancient city, showcasing intricate carvings and a unique octagonal cupola.

A brief summary to Arc of Marcus Aurelius

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the arch in the evening to see it illuminated by the sunset, creating a stunning photo opportunity.
  • Explore the Old City (Medina) surrounding the arch for a deeper dive into Tripoli's history and culture.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the streets around the arch are uneven.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Arch of Marcus Aurelius is located on Al Hara Alkabir Street in Tripoli's Old City, near the northeastern entrance to the Medina. From Martyrs' Square, walk north along Al Shara Street, then turn left onto Al Hara Alkabir Street. Continue for about 1.5km; the arch will be on your left. Walking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses operate in Tripoli, but routes and signage are in Arabic, making them difficult for tourists to use. Take a local bus heading towards the Old City. Disembark near Al Hara Alkabir Street; the arch is a short walk away. Bus fares are inexpensive, but exact costs are hard to determine. Confirm the destination with the driver.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tripoli. Hail a taxi from anywhere in the city and ask to be taken to the Arch of Marcus Aurelius in the Old City. Agree on a fare before starting your journey, as not all taxis use meters. A 5km ride in Tripoli costs around 18.5 LYD. Expect to pay more during late-night hours.

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Discover more about Arc of Marcus Aurelius

The Arch of Marcus Aurelius, a captivating monument in Tripoli, Libya, offers a glimpse into the city's rich Roman past. Erected in 165 AD in the city of Oea, the arch commemorates the victories of Lucius Verus, the adoptive brother and junior colleague of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, over the Parthians. Gaius Calpurnius Celsus, a local magistrate, funded the arch's construction. This quadrifrons triumphal arch, distinguished by its unusual octagonal cupola, is made entirely of marble. The arch's design features four arched openings and facades oriented to the cardinal directions. The wider openings on the northeast and southwest sides suggest that the road from the port was historically the most important. The arch's pediments showcase the patron deities of Oea, Apollo and Minerva, riding in bigae drawn by griffins and sphinxes. Some interpretations suggest the figures represent Lucius Verus and the goddess Roma. The four niches on the northeast and southwest faces once held statues of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus. Over the centuries, the arch was partially buried. Restoration work was carried out by the Italian administration in the early 20th century, and the surrounding area was reorganized. Despite some damage from World War II and ongoing environmental factors, the Arch of Marcus Aurelius remains a significant historical landmark and a must-see for visitors to Tripoli.

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