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Historic monument · Aosta, Vale de Aosta
Porta Praetoria
The eastern gate of the Roman town, dating from 25 BC, with two sets of arches that closed a parade square, and one of the best-preserved Roman gates.
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 Porta Praetoria
The Porta Praetoria was the eastern entrance to Augusta Praetoria, built in 25 BC, together with the wall that surrounded the Roman town. It is in excellent condition and is one of the most complete Roman gates that remain.
It consists of two rows of arches, an outer and an inner, which enclosed a parade ground between them. In each row the central arch, with about a 7-meter span, served chariots, and the two narrower side arches were for pedestrians. The outer openings were closed by liftable grilles. On the sides stood two towers, altered over the centuries.
In the Middle Ages a chapel was built on top of the central arch, and beneath it a bread oven operated, whose dark marks are still visible on the stone. The ground level rose over the centuries, and recent excavations revealed the original Roman paving more than two meters below the current street.
The main street of the center runs through it, the Via Porta Praetoria, which links the Arco de Augusto to praça Chanoux, and the teatro romano is right next door.
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
During the day, combined with the teatro romano next door.
How to get there
It is located in the east of the centre, on the Via Porta Praetoria, about a 5-minute walk from the Arco de Augusto and praça Chanoux.
Tip
Stop in the middle, between the two rows of arches: it is the former parade ground, and from there you can understand how the gate worked.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Porta Praetoria
What is the Porta Praetoria?
The east gate of the Roman city Augusta Praetoria, dating from 25 BC, with two rows of arches that closed off a parade ground.
Why does the gate look buried?
The ground level rose over the centuries. The original Roman pavement lies more than two metres below the current street.
Is the Porta Praetoria near the Roman theatre?
Yes, the Roman theatre is right next to it.