A triumphal arch, also called an arch of triumph, is a parallelepiped piece of architecture with the characteristics of a monumental gate in the form of an arc. It was usually built to celebrate a victory in war and the related triumph of the Dux or Imperator. This tradition was born in Rome and developed throughout the imperial age.
Some types of triumphal arches were made of stone, or marble, with decorations depicting the deeds of war to which the memorial was dedicated.
In some cases ephemeral arches were built, in wood, to be used during particular celebrations then removed. The arches erected in Rome are “triumphal” because triumphs were celebrated and the success of the victor was honoured.
The arches erected in other areas are “honorary” and commemorated important events. Originally the arches were of simple workmanship with a single central opening, called the fornix. In the late imperial age more refined structures were built, with the addition of two more side fornices and relief decorations.
