Arch of the Sergii (Pula)

 Arch of the Sergii (Pula)

 

Location: Ulica Sergijevaca

Constructed: 27 BC

 

Description of the Triumphal Arch of Sergii or Arch of Sergius

Triumphal Arch of Sergii or Arch of Sergius was erected in 27 BC as an arch of honorary triumph, originally a city gate, was erected as a symbol of victory in Actium. It was commissioned by Salvia Postuma Sergia as a memorial to her three brothers and paid out of private funds (Latin de sua pecunia), not from state; as usual. It originally stood in front of the 1839 demolished porta Aurea ("Golden Gate"), the main gate of the city, and is therefore decorated only on one side. Through this gate, the Via Flavia of Aquileia and Trieste once ran to Forum Square. During triumphs people were supposed to pass from the West and hence this part of the Triumphal Arch was covered by elaborate relief that was covered by golden plates in the past. Eastern part of the Triumphal Arch of Sergii on the other hand is less intricate since it was out of view of the public. Sergijevaca Street that begins from the Arch is named after the Arch of Sergii.