Hadrian's Arch

View looking north at the exterior of Hadrian's Arch.  It was built to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian to Gerasa in A.D. 129/130—he spent the winter here in Gerasa.

This gate was intended to become the main southern gate to the city, but the expansion of the city in this direction was never completed.  Arches of this type were built in a number of cities to honor the Emperor as he processed into the city.

Note the central arched entranceway that is flanked by smaller arched entrances.  Note also the four engaged columns that are situated on four plinths (bases)—in typical Roman fashion.  The capitals at the top of the columns are Corinthian, but at the base of the columns note the ring of acanthus leaves—a rather rare arrangement.

“Hadrian’s Gate” is located 365 yards [400 m.] due south of the Southern Gate.  Because of their stylistic similarities, they were probably built at the same time.