The Roman Arch of Constantine: Spolia and Imperial Propaganda

Introduction: The Monument of Synthesis Standing in the shadow of the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine is the largest surviving triumphal arch from classical antiquity. Erected in 315 CE, it was commissioned by the Roman Senate to commemorate Emperor Constantine I’s historic victory over his rival Maxentius at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312 CE). This triumph permanently altered the course of Western civilization, setting Constantine on the path to legalizing and eventually adopting Chri