Italy Panorama

Arco di Traiano

Ancona is the capital of the Marche Region and has been a major Adriatic port for more than two millennium.  It was one of the main debarking points for European crusaders during the Middle Ages.  Today’s port is industrial, with heavy shipping, cruise ship and ferry traffic.  It was rebuilt after heavy bombing damage during World War II, but contains some unique finds amongst the drab.

The Arco di Traiano, built in 115 to honor the Emperor Trajan (Traiano) who was instrumental in expanding and improving this most important Roman Adriatic port. This marble structure stands almost six stories high and originally had large brass statues of Trajan, his wife Plotina and his sister Marciana. The arch originally dominated the port as a landmark for approaching ships but now looks rather small compared to the towering cranes of a busy modern port.

Duomo di San Ciriaco

Situated above the sea is the Cathedral of San Ciriaco, which provides good views of the port and Adriatic to the east. If you like to watch the ships come and go this is a great vantage point. The duomo is an interesting medieval church with stone lions standing guard at the door and a simple but elegant interior. From this location, the highest in the city, you also have a view of some Roman era ruins to the north that currently are not accessible.