Trajan's Column

046 Conrad Cichorius, Die Reliefs der Traianssäule, Tafel XLVI (Ausschnitt 01)

Trajan's column dupondius

032 Conrad Cichorius, Die Reliefs der Traianssäule, Tafel XXXII

001 Conrad Cichorius, Die Reliefs der Traianssäule, Tafel I

Trajan inscription duotone

002 Conrad Cichorius, Die Reliefs der Traianssäule, Tafel II

Trajan's Column is a monumental Roman column that stands in Rome, Italy, in the Forum of Trajan. It was constructed under the supervision of the architect Apollodorus of Damascus following the order of Emperor Trajan after his victory in the Dacian Wars. The column was dedicated in AD 113 and is renowned for its spiral bas-relief that artistically narrates the epic wars between the Romans and Dacians. This masterpiece of ancient art and engineering is not only a commemorative monument but also serves as Trajan's tomb.

Design and Description

Trajan's Column is made from a series of 20 colossal Carrara marble drums, each weighing about 32 tons. It stands 30 meters (98 feet) tall, or 35 meters (115 feet) including its large pedestal. The column is crowned by a statue of Trajan, although the original has been lost to history and was replaced in the 16th century by a statue of Saint Peter.

The most distinctive feature of Trajan's Column is its intricate spiral bas-relief, which wraps around the column for a total length of 200 meters (656 feet). This frieze is a visual narrative of the Dacian Wars, depicting over 2,500 figures in a continuous scene of battle scenes, troop movements, and everyday life of soldiers. The level of detail provides valuable insights into Roman and Dacian military techniques, attire, and instruments.

Historical Context

The Dacian Wars (101–102 and 105–106 AD) were critical in consolidating the Roman Empire's power and expanding its territory into modern-day Romania. Emperor Trajan's victory over the Dacians not only secured vast amounts of gold and silver for the Roman treasury but also demonstrated Roman military superiority. The construction of Trajan's Column was both a political and cultural symbol, celebrating Roman conquest and the emperor's achievements.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Trajan's Column has been a subject of study and admiration for centuries. It has influenced numerous commemorative monuments around the world and remains a pivotal example of Roman relief art. The column's detailed depiction of the Roman army has been invaluable to historians and archaeologists in understanding ancient military practices, equipment, and daily life in the Roman legions.

Preservation and Legacy

Over the centuries, Trajan's Column has faced the challenges of weathering and pollution, which have necessitated various conservation efforts. Today, it stands as a testament to Rome's imperial past and its enduring influence on Western culture and architecture. The column is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Historic Centre of Rome.

See Also

• Roman Empire
• Dacian Wars
• Apollodorus of Damascus
• Forum of Trajan
• Roman sculpture