Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome: Complete Guide, History & Visiting Tips

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Planning to explore the Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome? This guide gives you all the key information about how to visit the Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome, including where to find it, how to get there, and the best way to see it during your visit to the Roman Forum.

Built in honor of Emperor Septimius Severus and his victories, the Arco di Settimio Severo is one of the most striking triumphal arches of ancient Rome. Learn about its fascinating history, the detailed reliefs that decorate it, and the stories they tell about Rome’s imperial past. 

Start your visit and uncover the beauty and significance of the Arch of Septimius Severus!

How to Visit the Arch of Septimius Severus

The Arch of Septimius Severus is located inside the Roman Forum, so you’ll need a valid Roman Forum and Colosseum ticket to walk right up to it. 

You can still admire the Arco di Settimio Severo from outside the fences along Via dei Fori Imperiali or from the Capitoline Hill viewpoint, but to appreciate its detailed carvings and reliefs up close, entering the archaeological area is a must.

Because the arch stands at one of the Forum’s main entrances, it becomes one of the very first monuments you encounter once you step inside, making it extremely easy to include in any visit.

Here are the best ways to experience the Arch of Septimius Severus:

• Roman Forum + Colosseum entry ticket : The simplest way to see the arch up close. Book your entry pass online (check last price on this page) to avoid long lines at the ticket office. 
• Guided tour of the Colosseum & Roman Forum : Joining an expert-led tour is the best way to truly appreciate the Arco di Settimio Severo. Your guide will explain the military victories celebrated here, point out the detailed scenes carved into the marble, and share how the monument glorified the Severan dynasty (check tour options on this page).
• Premium small-group or private tour : If you want even more context, choose a tour that includes the Palatine Hill or special Colosseum access (check tour options on this page). These tours usually begin or end near the Arch of Septimius Severus, giving you extra time to explore and photograph this triumphal monument without the rush of big groups.
• Rome Sightseeing Pass : If you’re planning to visit several of Rome’s top attractions, including the Colosseum, Forum, and Vatican Museums, an all-in-one Roma Pass, Rome Turbopass or Omnia Card can simplify your planning and sometimes save money. The arch is automatically included since it’s part of the Forum visit.

Arch of Septimius Severus Location & How to Get There

The Arch of Septimius Severus rises proudly at the foot of the Capitoline Hill, right at the northwestern entrance of the Roman Forum. 

You’ll spot it immediately thanks to its striking white marble and its position beside the Temple of Saturn and the Rostra. Because it sits along the main route through the Forum, most visitors walk right past it without even trying, it’s one of the first monuments you see when entering from Piazza Venezia.

Just a few steps away, you’ll also find famous landmarks like the Curia Julia, the Forum’s central square, and the Tabularium. It’s perfectly placed for photos, especially in the morning when the sunlight hits its reliefs beautifully.

How to get to the Arch of Septimius Severus

• By metro: Take Line B (blue line) and hop off at Colosseo station. From there, walk along Via dei Fori Imperiali toward Piazza Venezia and enter the Roman Forum through the main gate. The Arco di Settimio Severo is about a 10-minute walk inside the archaeological area, located near the base of the Capitoline Hill.
• By bus: Buses 51, 75, 85, 87, and 118 all stop around Via dei Fori Imperiali or Piazza Venezia. From either stop, follow the signs to the Roman Forum entrance, once inside, the arch is one of the first monuments you’ll see on your left-hand side.
• On foot: If you’re exploring the Colosseum, the Capitoline Museums, or Piazza Venezia, you can easily walk to the Arch of Septimius Severus in 5 to 8 minutes.

You can check the exact location of the Arch of Septimius Severus and get walking directions directly on Google Maps below.

Arch of Septimius Severus Opening Hours

The Arch of Septimius Severus is part of the Roman Forum, which means you can admire it from inside the archaeological area during the Forum’s official opening hours.

The Roman Forum opens daily at 8:30 am, with closing times changing throughout the year:

• Late March to late August: 8:30 am – 7:15 pm
• Late August to late October: 8:30 am – 6:30 pm
• Late October to mid-February: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
• Mid-February to late March: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
• (Last entry is generally one hour before closing.)
• Closed on: December 25 and January 1.

Visiting tip: If you want beautiful photos of the Arch of Septimius Severus, visit early in the morning when the sun hits the reliefs from the east. The light is softer, the crowds are smaller, and the marble carvings look even more detailed, perfect for capturing one of the most impressive triumphal arches in the Forum.

Triumphal Arch Of Septimius Severus Inscription

On the attic of the arch is an inscription that honors the war efforts of Severus and his family.

Originally it was gilded in bronze, but that has long since weathered away. It basically thanked Severus and his two sons for ‘restoring the Republic and expanding the dominion of the Roman people'.

However, after Geta was assassinated, all reference to the “most noble Caesar Geta” was removed and replaced.

Amazing Arch Of Septimius Severus Drawings

You can buy some stunning Arch of Septimius drawings as artwork for your own home!

Take a look at this piece, inspired by the elevation plan of the monument. The British Museum holds a gorgeous drawing by John Warwick Smith of the Arch and surrounding buildings.

How Was The Arch Of Septimius Severus Built?

The Arch of Septimius was built on a large travertine base, and constructed of white marble.

It was built 21 meters high and 23 meters wide. It was decided to place it close to the meeting place of the Senate – the Curia Julia.

Four huge reliefs in 4x5m sections depict scenes from the battle with the Parthians. Unfortunately, the sculptures and statues on the top, as well as the stairs, are long lost to time.

3 Unusual Arch of Septimius Severus Facts

1. Septimius Severus was Rome’s first African Emperor.
2. The arch had eight corinthian columns, adding to its impressive stature.
3. The Arch of Septimius is actually made of three arches – the central arch was for traffic, with one on either side for pedestrians.

Did Each Side Of The Arch Of Septimius Severus Tell A Different Story?

Yes – there are four tales told on the Arch of Septimius – two on each side.

On the side facing the Forum the left panel shows a battle and the liberation of Nisibis. The right panel depicts some Parthians surrendering, amongst others.

One the opposite side of the arch – the side that faces the Capitoline – you can see the city of Seleucia falling as well as Septimius rallying his triumphant army.

Are there more Septimus Severus Arches Except in Rome?

There are indeed!

Replica arches can be found in Libya and Palmyra, both of which were part of the Roman Empire. In 1928 the arch in Libya – located at Leptis Magna – was completely restored by archeologists when they found it.

In Palmyra, the remains of the arch were destroyed by Isis.

The Arch Of Septimius Severus History Facts

To celebrate Severus’s victories over the Parthians (Persians) alongside his sons between 194 and 199AD, a white marble arch was constructed in the north east side of the Forum.

Inscriptions to Severus – and his kids Caracalla and Geta were etched into the arch with pride, and the structure sat on a huge travertine base.

At 23 meters tall, it was one of the empire’s tallest arches, taller even than the Arch of Constantine, which stood at 21 meters.

It is one of the best kept and preserved monuments in the Roman Forum, largely because it was part of a church and cared for by a wealthy family.

In the fourth century AD a road was built under the arch – you can still see some of the bumps and scrapes caused by through traffic at the internal base of the arch!

Top Attractions near Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome

After admiring the Arch of Septimius Severus at the edge of the Roman Forum, you’re perfectly placed to explore even more of ancient Rome.

From temples and arches to sweeping city views, there’s a lot packed into just a few minutes’ walk from this triumphal gateway.

• Roman Forum – Step straight from the Arch of Septimius Severus into the heart of ancient Rome. The Forum’s tumbled columns, basilicas, and temples once hosted political debates, triumphal parades, and daily market life. Get Roman Forum & Colosseum tickets on time and give yourself time to simply wander and let the ruins tell their stories.
• Temple of Saturn – Just a few steps away, the tall columns of the Temple of Saturn rise above the Forum. Once home to Rome’s state treasury, it’s one of the most photogenic ruins around. Visit near sunset for that golden glow on the stone.
• Curia Julia (Roman Senate House) – Nearby, the surprisingly intact brick building of the Curia Julia shows where senators once argued over empire-shaping decisions. Inside, you can picture togas rustling and voices echoing as Rome’s elite debated laws and war.
• Temple of Vespasian and Titus – This trio of elegant columns stands almost beside the arch. Dedicated to the Flavian emperors, it’s easy to rush past, but pause to admire the carved capitals and imagine the temple in marble-clad glory towering over the Forum.
• Capitoline Hill & Piazza del Campidoglio – Climb the gentle slope behind the Arch of Septimius Severus to Michelangelo’s redesigned square on Capitoline Hill. From the terrace, you get one of the best panoramas of the Forum, plus a quick escape from the crowds milling below.
• Capitoline Museums – Once you’ve had your fill of ruins, duck into the Capitoline Museums (get entry ticket on time here) at the top of the hill. Inside you’ll find famous statues, ancient inscriptions, and artifacts pulled from the very sites you just walked through—perfect for adding context to your visit.
• Arch of Titus & Via Sacra – Follow the old processional route, the Via Sacra, deeper into the Forum toward the Arch of Titus. This smaller triumphal arch is covered in detailed reliefs and leads you in the direction of the Colosseum, keeping your ancient-Rome walk going strong.

With so many major sights just footsteps from the Arch of Septimius Severus, it’s easy to turn a quick photo stop into a full journey through Rome’s most iconic ancient landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Built The Arch Of Septimius Severus?

The Arch was built in honor of Severus by the Senate, who wanted to offer the Emperor the chance to have a triumphal march through the arch. Unfortunately. Severus could not partake in a march, because he had gout! The monument was built anyway and still stands tall and proud to this day.

Why Was The Arch Of Septimius Severus Built?

The Arch of Septimius Severus was built to commemorate several battles in the Parthian wars, and to honor Severus. The Emperor’s 2 sons are also commemorated in the form of reliefs, however, Geta’s were eventually removed after his brother had him assassinated!

What was the Arch of Septimius Severus used for?

The Arch of Septimius Severus was mainly decorational , built to commemorate the military gain of Severus.

How many arches does the Arch of Septimius Severus have?

There are 3 arches – one was for traffic and 2 for pedestrians on either side.

How tall is the arch of Septimius Severus?

The arch is 21m tall.

What is the arch of Septimius Severus made of?

Like many other arches, it is made of marble.

How old is the Arch of Septimius Severus?

The arch of Septimius was built in 203 AD.

Has the Septimus Severus Arch ever been destroyed?

No. The arch in Rome has never been destroyed, although one of its sides was damaged in a fire and has been slightly eroded by the elements.

Conclusion

Feeling inspired to stand beneath the Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome and explore the Roman Forum and Colosseum?

Then head on over to our other resources to start planning the rest of your trip! And don’t forget to consider a city pass or card to help you maximize your budget.