The Arch of Janus is located near the Chiesa di San Giorgio al Velabro and the Arco degli Argentari in Rome. It is the only surviving quadrifrons arch in the city.
A brief history of the Arch of Janus in Rome
Though it is now known as the Arch of Janus (Arco di Giano) it is really the ancient Arco dei Costantini.
The arch consists of 4 pillars, the outsides of which used to be embellished with 48 statues in niches. The statues have all disappeared.
The only sculptures still adorning the monument are the four female figures above the keystones. Minerva and Ceres were sculpted in a standing position, whereas Roma and Juno are sitting down.
During the Middle Ages, fragments of inscriptions on the upper side of the arch were transported to the San Giorgio al Velabro Church. The barely legible inscriptions testify that the monument was probably dedicated to either Constantine or Constant II.
Also during the Middle Ages, the Frangipani used the building as a basis for a tower. It is mainly due to this that it survived and can still be seen today.
Opening hours
A protective gate surrounds the Arch of Janus, which can therefore only be viewed from outside.
Admission
Free.
Address
The Arco di Giano is located next to the Chiesa di San Giorgio al Velabro and the Arco degli Argentari. The address is Via del Velabro, snc. Public transport: Bus: 81, 85, 87, 160, 160F, 628, 715, 810, C3.
Arch of Janus – Via del Velabro, Rome
Sources
- Touring Club Italiano – Rome.
- Photos are my own, unless otherwise indicated (© RenatoProsciutto).
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