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Historic monument · Besançon, Borgonha-Franco-Condado
Porte Noire
Roman triumphal arch from the 2nd century, from the time of Marcus Aurelius, about 16 metres tall, decorated with mythological figures and battle scenes, at the foot of the cathedral.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Porte Noire
The Porte Noire, or Black Gate, is a Roman triumphal arch erected in the 2nd century, in the time of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, when Besançon was Vesontio, an important city of Roman Gaul. The arch commemorated military victories of the emperor against Germanic peoples and of the Romans against the Parthians in the East.
It is about 16 metres high and was entirely covered with sculptures: heroes and gods from Greek and Roman mythology, battle scenes and figures of prisoners. Many have been worn away by time and stone erosion, but bodies, horses and weapons can still be made out in the reliefs. The name comes from the darkening of the stone over the centuries.
In the 19th century the arch was restored, and some parts were rebuilt. The rue de la Convention runs beneath it, and beside it is the square Castan, a small garden with columns and remains of a Roman complex discovered in the 19th century.
The arch lies on the route between the Grande Rue and the cathedral, and is the natural gate for those climbing to the citadel.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 10 to 20 minutes, including the square Castan.
Best time
During the day, side light brings out the reliefs. At night, the arch is illuminated.
How to get there
It is on rue de la Convention, at the foot of the cathedral, about a 10-minute walk from the praça da Revolução.
Tip
Get close to the columns and look for the figures in the reliefs: from a distance they seem worn away, but up close you can still make out characters and scenes.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Porte Noire
What is the Porte Noire?
A 2nd-century Roman triumphal arch, from the time of Marcus Aurelius, about 16 metres high with reliefs of mythological figures and battles.
Why is it called the Black Gate?
Because the stone darkened over the centuries.
Where is the Porte Noire?
On the rue de la Convention, at the foot of Saint John's cathedral, on the way to the citadel.