Arco dei Gavi 🇮🇹

When you visit Verona, step into ancient Roman history at the Arco dei Gavi, a rare 1st-century AD monument built to honor the noble Gavi family. Located today in the small square beside Castelvecchio, this ancient structure offers you a fascinating look at Roman civic pride and masterful architecture. Designed by architect L.

Vitruvius Cerdo during the reign of Augustus or early Tiberius, it stands out as a unique, privately funded Roman arch. As you admire the monument, look closely at the inner faces of the pillars to spot the architect’s rare double signature, carved so travelers could read his name both entering and leaving the city. You can also examine the flanking niches that once displayed statues of Gavi family members, including Caius Gavio Strabo and Marco Gavio Macrone.

Beyond its Roman origins, you are viewing a landmark that deeply inspired Renaissance masters like Andrea Palladio and Andrea Mantegna. Although French military engineers dismantled the arch in 1805, dedicated experts meticulously reassembled it in 1932 using anastylosis and original stone materials. It is an unmissable stop for history enthusiasts exploring Verona's rich, layered heritage.

What to see at Arco dei Gavi

• Rare 1st-century AD privately funded Roman monumental arch
• Double signature of architect L. Vitruvius Cerdo on the inner pillars
• Flanking niches that originally housed statues of the Gavi family
• Historical inspiration for Renaissance architects like Andrea Palladio
• Reconstructed in 1932 using original stone blocks via anastylosis

Visiting tips

Head to the archaeological museum at the Roman theatre to view a 19th-century scale wooden model of the arch created before its 1932 reconstruction.

How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Arco dei Gavi is easy to reach on Verona’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Verona Arena and Castelvecchio. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Verona travel guide.