The Roman Forum contains several examples of triumphal arches. These are structures built to celebrate success in a war and celebrate the victories of Rome. They usually include inscriptions and depictions of battle scenes from the time they were made, as well as sometimes scenes from the past. One of the most well-known arches in Rome is the Arch of Constantine. It was created in 315 CE, to commemorate the Battle of Milvian Bridge, between Constantine and Maxentius . The arch is built of brick and marble and actually made up of parts of older monuments, as well as parts built after the battle of Milvian Bridge. The Archway includes an inscription describing his triumph and dedicating the monument to Constantine in the name of the Senate and the Roman people. The main focus of the arch is a narrative frieze of battles leading to the battle at the Milvian bridge, and the battle itself. Constantine's victory is shown, as well as a victory ceremony of him addressing his people, with the Arches of Septimius Severus and Titus in the background. The arch also shows deities. Victoria, the goddess of victory in the supporting columns. She is used symbolically to portray the triumph in battle in various triumphal arches. Also shown on small roundels are the Sun God and Moon.
Sources:
Scarre, Chris. Historical Atlas of Ancient Rome. Pinguin Books. London, England. 1995
Seindal, Rene. Arch of Constantine, Rome. http://sights.seindal.dk. 1998.
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