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Historic monument · Aosta, Vale de Aosta
Arco d'Augusto
Roman arch from 25 BC, built to celebrate the victory over the Salassi and the founding of Augusta Praetoria, with a crucifix hanging beneath the vault.
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 Arco d'Augusto
The Arco de Augusto was built in 25 BC to celebrate the victory of the Romans, led by Terentius Varro Murena, over the Salassi, the Celtic people who lived in the valley, and the founding of the city of Augusta Praetoria, which later became Aosta. It stands outside the Roman wall, on the axis of the main street of the ancient town, a few steps from the Porta Praetoria and the Santo Urso quarter.
The arch has a single opening, over 11 metres high, and mixes styles: the half-columns of the façades have Corinthian capitals, while the frieze above follows the Doric order. In the Middle Ages, an image of Christ placed on the arch gave it the name Saint-Voût (holy face), and the monument at times housed a noble residence and a small crossbowmen’s fortification. The roof that covers the top was added in the 18th century to protect the structure.
A wooden crucifix hangs under the vault. The original, from the 15th century, is kept in the cathedral’s treasure museum; the one on view is a copy.
The arch stands in the middle of a small square, with the mountains behind it, and is the Roman symbol of the town.
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
About 10 to 20 minutes.
Best time
In the early morning or late afternoon, with side light and the mountains in the background. At night the arch is lit up.
How to get there
It is located in Piazza Arco de Augusto, on the east side of the centre, about a 10-minute walk from the station and 5 minutes from Santo Urso.
Tip
Photograph the arch from the Roman bridge over the Buthier, a few metres away, with the mountains behind.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Arco d'Augusto
Why was the Arco de Augusto built?
To celebrate, in 25 BC, the Romans' victory over the salassos and the founding of Augusta Praetoria, today’s Aosta.
Is the crucifix on the arch old?
The original, from the 15th century, is in the cathedral's treasury museum. What hangs on the arch is a copy.
Why does the arch have a roof?
The roof was added in the 18th century to protect the structure from rain and snow.