Marcus Aurelius Column — Attraction in Rome

A monumental celebration of the victories of Roman armies, illustrating ancient warfare in vivid detail.

Standing in Piazza Colonna in the center of Rome, the towering Column of Marcus Aurelius was erected to honor the Roman emperor’s military campaigns against “barbarian” peoples in central Europe from 172 to 175 CE. It was probably built between 176 and 193.

A tale of victory. Made of 28 blocks of Italian marble, the shaft of Marcus’s column is 87 ft (26.5 m) tall. The column is hollow, with a 200-step spiral staircase rising inside. It was undoubtedly inspired by another famous monument in Rome, Trajan’s Column, completed in 113 CE. Like the earlier column, it is covered in relief carvings, which unfold in a spiral from the foot of the column to the top. In the reliefs on the lower half, Marcus Aurelius is shown leading his troops in action against the Marcomanni, while the upper part illustrates his victories over the Sarmatians. One of the most famous scenes represents an incident in 172 CE when Roman troops, besieged by their enemies and dying of thirst, were rescued by a sudden rainstorm. The reliefs are of vital historical interest, providing detailed information on Roman military equipment and campaigning techniques, such as the building of pontoon bridges. Originally, statues of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his wife Faustina stood on top of the column, but these disappeared in medieval times and were replaced by a statue of St....

When in Rome, it’s always worth stopping to look at the stories being told—especially when they’re carved in stone. The Column of Marcus Aurelius, standing proudly in Piazza Colonna, is one of those monuments that rewards anyone who takes the time to truly look.

Built between 180 and 193 AD, this towering column (about 39 meters high) was inspired by Trajan’s Column and commemorates Emperor Marcus Aurelius’ military campaigns against the Germanic tribes and the Sarmatians. The intricate spiral relief that winds its way up the shaft tells a dramatic, almost cinematic story of these battles—Roman soldiers crossing rivers, storming fortifications, and engaging in fierce combat, all under the watchful eye of the emperor himself. One of the most striking scenes is the so-called “Rain Miracle,” where divine intervention is depicted as a god-like figure sending a torrential downpour to aid the Roman army.

Though time and weathering have softened the details, the craftsmanship is still remarkable. Unlike Trajan’s Column, which originally had a bronze statue of Trajan at the top, this one now features a statue of St. Paul, added in the 16th century by Pope Sixtus V.

Piazza Colonna itself is a pleasant spot to pause, with its mix of ancient and modern Rome all around. Whether you’re passing through or making a dedicated visit, the Column of Marcus Aurelius is one of those historical treasures that remind you why Rome is called the...

Located in the heart of Rome at Piazza Colonna, the Marcus Aurelius Column is a stunning masterpiece of ancient engineering. Built in AD 180, this remarkable column was erected to commemorate Emperor Marcus Aurelius’ victories and stands as a true testament to history. The column, standing approximately 30 meters tall, is adorned with intricate spiral reliefs that depict the emperor’s triumphs over Germanic tribes. Each scene vividly narrates the Roman army’s strategies, victorious moments, and the strength of their empire. The level of detail is astonishing, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. Situated in the bustling Piazza Colonna, the column is easily accessible and surrounded by a vibrant mix of historic and modern Rome. The square offers a charming atmosphere with nearby cafes and restaurants where you can relax and soak in the view. Tips for Visitors: Consider using a guide or an audio tour to fully grasp the column’s history. Visit during late afternoon to witness how the light beautifully highlights the intricate carvings. Combine your visit with nearby landmarks like the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon for a complete Roman experience. The Marcus Aurelius Column is one of the best-preserved monuments that captures the grandeur of ancient Rome. If you’re in the city, this historical gem is an...