The Arch of the Sergii is a Roman triumphal arch on Portarata Square in Pula, Croatia, where the old town's pedestrian shopping street begins. Built between 29 and 27 BC, it honours three members of the Sergii family, one of the powerful families of the early Roman colony. The stonework still shows fine detail up close, and the arch is free to visit at any hour. Take a few minutes to look at the carvings, then walk on through to the street of shops and cafes that starts here.
Who the arch honours
The arch was commissioned by Salvia Postuma Sergia, a member of the Sergii family, after the Battle of Actium. It honours three men from her family. One of them, Lucius Sergius Lepidus, served as a tribune in the 29th Legion, which took part in that battle. The battle was the naval clash between Octavian's fleet and the forces of Antony and Cleopatra. An inscription on the arch names Salvia Postuma Sergia as the person who paid for it, so the monument is tied to a woman's family rather than to an emperor.
A gate that was once part of the city walls
The arch was not built as a free-standing doorway. It leaned against the Porta Aurea, the Golden Gate of the Roman colony, and the gate took its name from its richly ornamented or gilded elements. The gate and the wall beside it were pulled down in the 19th century, when the city grew beyond its walls. The arch was left standing and kept the Golden Gate name.
What to look at
The arch is about 8 metres high and follows Corinthian style, with Hellenistic influences. Its decoration is on one side only, a result of its former position against the gate. The carvings include cups, wreaths and a chariot pulled by a horse. Look for the inscription, which names the family members and the woman who funded the arch.
Visiting the arch and the old town
The arch stands at the entrance to Sergijevaca, the pedestrian street of the old town, lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. Walking on from the arch takes you to other monuments in the area, and the route continues toward the harbour. The arch is in a public area, so there is no entry fee. The entrance is wheelchair accessible.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. The arch stands in a public area and there is no entry fee.
Is the arch wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the entrance is wheelchair accessible.
Where is the Arch of the Sergii?
It is on Portarata Square at Flanatička 2 in Pula, where the old town's pedestrian street begins.
Is it good for children?
The arch is listed as good for kids. The carved details make it a short, easy stop with children.
