Arco Augusteo (Augustan Arch), Syracuse

The Augustan Arch of Syracuse is a remarkable Roman architectural structure dating back to the Augustan era, situated in the heart of the Neapolis Archaeological Park in Syracuse. This arch stands as a testament to the city's rich history and Roman heritage.

Excavations in the 1950s near the Roman amphitheater of Syracuse unveiled the remains of this splendid architectural work. The arch was designed with two pillars supporting a single-fornix arch, with its front oriented in an east-west direction. The grand dimensions of the arch are impressive, with a width of 10 meters, a depth of 6 meters, and an overall height of approximately 13 meters. The arch was constructed using opus sack as the internal core, while the exterior was adorned with opus quadratum, showcasing white limestone blocks, and maintaining a rustic ashlar finish.

The arch was built on a low plinth, and for both pylons, archaeologists identified three rows of elevated blocks, as well as four blocks from the fourth row in the southern pylon. The arch boasted a prominent main façade facing east, where it might have featured columns or corner pilasters, lending it an imposing and ornate appearance. In contrast, the western front, although simpler, likely did not have an applied order.

The arch underwent partial modifications at two key points in history. First, at the end of the 2nd century and the beginning of the 3rd century AD, alterations were made. Then, further modifications were made at the end of the 7th century AD, which involved raising the fornix floor and constructing a staircase on the eastern façade. These changes speak to the evolving use and significance of the arch over time.

The arch's strategic location was along a road flanked by private residential areas to the north and south. Situated a short distance to the east of the southern entrance to the amphitheatre, the Augustan Arch represents a captivating relic of the city's ancient past, offering a glimpse into its Roman heritage and the architectural prowess of the Augustan era.