Trajan’s Column, monument that was erected in 106–113 CE by the Roman emperor Trajan and survives intact in the ruins of Trajan’s Forum in Rome. The marble column is of the Roman Doric order, and it measures 125 feet (38 metres) high together with the pedestal, or base, which contains a chamber that served as Trajan’s tomb. Originally the column stood in the middle of a courtyard surrounded by galleries from which one could view at various levels the spiral band (over 800 feet [240 metres] long and about 4 feet [1.2 metres] wide) covered with low-relief sculpture that forms a continuous narrative of the emperor’s two campaigns in Dacia. A spiral staircase is contained within the shaft’s interior, which measures 12 feet 2 inches (3.7 metres) in diameter. At first a bronze eagle had been placed on top of the column and then after Trajan’s death a bronze statue of the deceased emperor, which was replaced in 1588 by a statue of St. Peter. bas-relief, also called low relief or basso-relievo, in sculpture, any work where the projection from a supporting background is shallow. Bas-relief contrasts with high relief (alto-relievo), another type of relief sculpture in which projections are deep and may in parts be completely disengaged from the ground, thus approximating sculpture in the round. The bas-relief technique can be used on its own or with high relief and middle relief (mezzo-relievo) to create different effects. Relief sculpture is a complex art form that combines many features of the two-dimensional pictorial arts and the three-dimensional sculptural arts. Similar to a painting or drawing, a relief is dependent on a supporting surface, and the composition must be extended in a plane in order to be visible. Yet its three-dimensional properties do not have to be suggested but are in some degree actual, like those of fully developed sculpture. Among the various types of relief, bas-relief is perhaps the one that approaches most closely the pictorial arts. It requires the artist to translate the three-dimensional world into a two-dimensional one using systems of conventions or illusions. One of the most difficult tasks in carving any relief sculpture is to depict within the limits of a slab of wood or stone the relationship between forms occupying a deep space. Sculptors can solve the problem mainly by paying attention to the planes, or imaginary layers, of the relief. In a carved relief the highest, or front, plane is defined by the original surface of the material. Many sculptors respect this front plane by keeping their highest projections at that level. The back plane is the deepest level from which the forms project. The space between these two planes can be thought of as divided into a series of planes, one behind the other. The relationship of forms in deep space can then be thought of as the relationship between forms lying in different planes. Technically, the simplest kind of low relief is the two-plane relief. For this, the sculptor draws an outline and then cuts away the surrounding surface, leaving the figure raised as a flat silhouette above the background plane. This procedure is often used for the first stages of a full relief carving, in which case the sculptor will proceed to carve into the raised silhouette, rounding the forms and giving an impression of three-dimensional structure. In a two-plane relief, however, the silhouette is left flat and substantially unaltered except for the addition of surface detail. Assyrian sculptors used this method of relief carving to create bold figurative and abstract reliefs. The forms of low relief usually make contact with the background all around their contours. If there is a slight amount of undercutting, its purpose is to give emphasis, by means of cast shadow, to a contour rather than to give any impression that the forms are independent of their background. Donatello used this technique in his marble sculpture Madonna of the Clouds (c. 1425–35). The deep carving around Mary’s profile is used to draw the viewer’s eyes to her face, rather than to suggest

The column portrays the story of the wars between the Romans and Dacians in a fascinating and unique way. The manner of storytelling really excites ones imagination. Many other monuments are within a short walk from Trajan's Column, so you can witness a lot in this area of Rome quite quickly. Located in a wonderful area for sight-seeing and exploring, it's worth stopping by to experience Trajan's Column.

The Trajan's Column is a continuation of the Trajan's Market in Rome, Italy. It is located directly across from "Alter of the Fatherland," and is about a 15-minute walk to the north of the Colosseum and a 25-minute walk to the Pantheon. Trajan's Column commemorates Trajan's triumph over the Dacians during the Roman Empire's Dacian Wars. This column serves as the foundation for modern-day column design. It was built about the year 113 AD. Almost every portion of the column is covered in inscriptions and sculptures that depict various meanings. This location is now used for archaeological research, with the discoveries being applied in current building. Even though half of the column is walled, anyone can enter and learn about history. As one walks through this site, one can observe the amount of innovation displayed by ancient Rome's builders and engineers, at a time when technology was far from what it is now. In my perspective, and to be quite honest, the Roman Empire's forefathers were not only visionary, but also exceptional in every way when it comes to architectural design and futuristic structures. Rome is a beautiful city with a lot of history!

Trajan's Column is a triumphal column erected in Rome to commemorate the victories of Emperor Trajan. The column stands north of the Roman Forum.

This would be a major landmark in any city. A column celebrating the conquests of the emperor who ruled the empire when it achieved its maximum expansion... with every detail of it carved on the stone as if it was a comics strip telling a true and epic story... yet it risks being by-passed, almost unnoticed, by many on their way from the Vittorio Emmanuele memorial to the Coliseum. Quite similar to the Column of Marcus Aurelius which I visited on the day before.

This column is absolutely stunning, it’s very massive and decorated in amazing detail from top to bottom. It’s amazing to see in the daytime and nighttime, the column is protected and very well maintained. Its impressive stature is definitely worth checking out. I would recommend visiting this area and checking out Trajan’s column. There’s lots to do and see in and around this area.

Trajan’s Column, nestled in the heart of Rome, is an architectural marvel and an iconic symbol of the Roman Empire’s might. This towering monument, rising to a height of approximately 125 feet, is a testament to an era of conquests and glory. From its strategic placement in Trajan’s Forum to the intricacies of the narrative spiraled along its length, Trajan’s Column narrates a compelling tale. Its construction commemorates Emperor Trajan’s victorious Dacian Wars, and the carvings vividly depict these military campaigns with remarkable detail. The entire piece forms an enthralling storyboard, spiraling upwards, leading the observer’s gaze toward the heavens, in a way reminding us of mankind’s constant strive for elevation. The placement of the column carries a profound historical significance. Erected amidst the ruins of the Forum, the column provides a stark contrast to the aging relics surrounding it, like an immortal testament to the grandeur of a bygone era. It bridges the gap between past and present, allowing visitors to reflect on the evolution of civilization from the times of the Roman Empire to the present day. Trajan’s Column is not just a stone pillar. It’s a canvas on which the Romans have etched their military prowess, a time capsule preserving their artistic brilliance, and a beacon that has withstood the trials of time to tell their tales. Its historical significance and placement within the cradle of one of history’s greatest empires make it an unmissable destination for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of our collective past.

Very interesting and amazing view on some of the oldest places of Rome. The old stone-based buildings allow visitors to get the impression of what was going on here hundreds of years ago. Especially in the evening in the golden hours you can take amazing pictures and continue your sightseeing at other historic places nearby.

Trajan's Column is an ancient monument in Rome built by order of the emperor Trajan to commemorate his victory in Dacia, which has survived to this day. The monument is located in Trajan's Forum, in the immediate vicinity - to the north - of the Roman Forum. Completed in 113, the column has the exterior with a famous sculpted bas-relief, in the form of a spiral, which artistically reproduces in an epic form the wars between the Romans and the Dacians fought by Trajan for the conquest of Dacia. The column is about 40 meters high and contains 18 massive blocks of Carrara marble, each weighing 40 tons. In 1536, the base of the Column was freed from the ruins of Trajan's forum by order of Pope Paul III. The great architect Fontana took care of its restoration, starting in 1558. In 1587, in place of the statue of Trajan, originally located at the top of the column, but melted down in the Middle Ages, a statue of the Saint was placed by order of Pope Sixtus V Peter. In total, about 2500 human figures, about 60-75 cm tall, are presented. Emperor Trajan is present 60 times.

Located right next to the Altar to the Fatherland, Trajan's column is a nearly 2000 year old reminder of Roman Empires might. This column served as an example to many later monuments that would copy its style. It is free to view and its's very impressive to see how well it has survived through millenia.

An impressive pillar with some amazing carvings just beautiful surrounded buy history and the beautiful war memorial building, we visited an a Beautiful warm sunny day, but it was still very easy to get close and take pictures, craftsmanship was unreal

Very interesting monument! The details that are carved into the column are very impressive! You can’t get too close to it, but it’s still visible enough even from a distance.

A great site as you’re walking along. Would’ve loved to take the tour into the site but ticket booth was closed. Would’ve been nice to have a binocular to see the detail and maybe a legend of all the carvings on the column. You can see over 2000 years of history in one picture if taken from the correct angle!!! Love the area around the Forum. SO MUCH HISTORY!! Love you, Roma! Can’t wait to come back!!!

"The dacs come from the tracs". Nice stories captured in pictures according to the technology of those days. Trajan's war and conquer of the dacians. The column is out in the open to see from 10 meters or so, no tickets needed. Btw - there is a very similar column from Marcus Aurelius, bumped into it unexpectedly.

The column depicts the story of the Roman conquest of Dacia carved in a spiral around the column. There is a replica at the Romanian national history museum in Bucharest.

The column is beautiful, and was better appreciated after the history exhibit in the Colosseum about how and when it was built.

Saw it from outside its enclosure and did not go in. There is a wonderful overview spot in the piazza that allows almost unrestricted view of the monument. Also very few people there, but I visited in January and Rome has much fewer tourists in the winter.

Located in a wonderful area for sight-seeing and exploring, it's worth stopping by to experience Trajan's Column. The column portrays the story of the wars between the Romans and Dacians in a fascinating and unique way. The manner of storytelling really excites ones imagination. Many other monuments are within a short walk from Trajan's Column, so you can witness a lot in this area of Rome quite quickly.

This is not too far from the Colosseum and is another impressive piece of Roman architecture. It’s really just a column but you have to think it was built 2,000 years ago. Now that makes it impressive!

A great place just to get a lot of photos. You can actually touch these structures. It’s has breath taking art nearby as well. This place was free and it had security on station as well. There isn’t a guided tour available as well. Beware of the large amounts of foot traffic bc it could be overwhelming with traffic circle.

Trajans Column, ideal to see just before sunset. Great vibe with lots of street musicians and artists performing. Stones throw from the Roman forum and other famous historical sights in Rome

One of Rome's legendary emperors, Trajan, who conquered a lot of the eastern part of Europe, including the Dacians, for which this column of triumph was erected. Depictions on its frieze represents the battles of the Dacian wars. It's a testament of the Roman power in its earlier days, and for us Romanians, the conquering of Trajan marks a vital shift in our nation. Since then, we as a people became latin people, and the impact trickled down to our language, customs and society.

Worst tour ever taken... only go if you already know where you are going as the guide walked so fast she lost us at the Fountain where 2000 people were gathered! I told her I couldn't walk fast and the other person was walking with a cane. I told her I would let her know if I couldn't go any further as it is difficult walking for some. So apparently she thought that meant to leave us behind with no idea how to get back to our starting place. Don't waste your money unless you prefer to fend for yourself in a huge crowd.

It is stunning and was the model for following commemorative columns. The emperor Trajan, born in what today is Seville, is represented almost 60 times on it! It is made out of marble and commemorates the victory over the Dacians in what today is Rumania.

you can pay to go close up to the base of the column but actually the views from Street level are better, it is breathtaking (plus there's benches in the shade to sit and enjoy the view)

Well worth visiting this historical relic while touring Rome. Trajan's Column is yet another of the grand celebratory Roman triumphal column, this one celebrates Emperor Trajan's Victory during the Dacian Wars. The top has been modified/replaced by the Christian who took over power.

Go see this gorgeous column at night! It is incredible to see this next to the ruins. Fun fact: there are stairs in the column, but you cannot walk up them.

Romanian history sculpture!

One of the outstanding sights in the Rome’s wonder complex

The column is not just an historical monument, it also is a textbook of Roman history. You will see and read many military and ethnographic scenes on the column, from Dacia (Romania) in particular.

This column has literally stood the test of time and done so remarkably well! The story behind it is just as intriguing as its physical longevity.

This astounds me. What a spectacular building. Awe inspiring. The sheer size makes me think the Colosseum probably evoked a similar response in its day.

Not far from the Altar to the Fatherland stands the remains of Trajan's forum and its most prominent feature the spectacular Trajan's Column. Decorated in spiraling high-relief carvings, which are surprisingly well preserved for an almost 2000 year-old monument, the almost 100 foot tall column is a testament to roman Military might and engineering prowess and should not be missed. This will probably be a short stop on your itinerary, but it should be one that you make.

Very interesting and amazing view on some of the oldest places of Rome. The old stone-based buildings allow visitors to get the impression of what was going on here hundreds of years ago. Especially in the evening in the golden hours you can take amazing pictures and continue your sightseeing at other historic places nearby.

What's the point of putting Saint-Peter on top of Trajan's column? Remove it, give it it's own place put back Trajan like it was conceived.

Amazing monument of propaganda during the roman times, and it's free to see ! I advise going online to check the history behind this column before visiting. Note: In this monument and many others in Rome there are Africans that come talk to you and pretend to be friendly, and they'll try to give a bracelet for "free", and then they will ask you money. Do not accept the bracelet and avoid talking to them.

Quite different from the rest of the columns you generally see, depicting all the stages of the campaign. Definitely worth visiting, but do not expect to be able to see all the pictures, since they go up all the way to the top of the column.

Amazing place that takes you back in history

UNBELIEVABLE> Completed in AD 113, the freestanding column is most famous for its spiral bas relief, which depicts the wars between the Romans and Dacians (101–102 and 105–106). Its design has inspired numerous victory columns, both ancient and modern.

Wonderful work of art and history lesson... Built by Apollodorus of Damascus and inaugurated in AD 113, it represents the carved chronicle of Trajan's wars with the Dacians, ancestors of the today's Romanians. The conquest of Dacia in AD 106 enriched Rome. Celebrations were organized with gladiators and beasts for 123 days, each Roman received 650 dinars, no more taxes were paid, aqueducts and theaters were built throughout the empire. Dacia (today's Romania territory) was ruled by the Romans until 271 AD. The Dacians were the supreme trophy of the Romans, and are represented by dozens of statues all over Rome: the Vatican, the Arch of Constantine, the Capitoline Museum etc.

You always wonder when seeing those monuments and archeological sites what we as new generation have we created so “grandiose” and “unique” … a place to visit in Rome