L'Arco Di Traiano a Leptis Magna

This monograph summarises the results of the full study of the monument, already excavated and restored by the Italian Archaeological Service in 1930-31, hitherto described in a few short notes, but unpublished in detail. The analysis includes: history of both excavation and restoration of the preserved structures, the survey and the description of the latter, and the detailed study of the architectural features (seen within the frame of the local architecture of Lepcis and its different cultural influences) in relation to the inscriptions. These data give for the first time a complete overview, allowing the suggestion of hypothesis about the reconstruction of the arch, particularly regarding the typology of the inner vault, the shape of the attic, and the presence of bronze statues and trophies above the columned foreparts. Aspects of the original construction have also been defined, as being the result of the local adaptation of established Roman patterns; new suggestions for the political propaganda regarding the monumental arch have been also discussed. The monograph ends with a survey of all the known Roman triumphal arches in Northern Africa. Abstracts both in English and Arabic languages complete the book.