Located in Trajan's Forum north of the Roman Forum, Trajan's Column is a famous Roman triumphal column dedicated in 113 AD to commemorate Emperor Trajan's victory in the Dacian Wars. Standing about 30 meters high (35 meters including its large pedestal), this freestanding masterpiece offers you an incredible glimpse into ancient Roman history and propaganda. Constructed under architect Apollodorus of Damascus, the column features a 190-meter frieze that winds around its shaft 23 times.
As you examine the monument, you will see a detailed continuous narrative featuring 2,662 figures and 155 scenes, with Trajan appearing 58 times. The spiral bas-relief meticulously depicts Roman military campaigns, scenes of orderly soldiers carrying out ceremony and construction, crossing the Danube, and specific moments like the death of the Dacian king Decebalus. The shaft itself is composed of 20 colossal Carrara marble drums, containing an internal spiral staircase of 185 steps that leads to a top viewing deck.
While a statue of Trajan originally crowned the capital, today you will spot a bronze figure of Saint Peter added in 1587. Trajan's ashes were once kept in golden urns inside the square base, making it both a victory monument and a final resting place.
What to see at Trajan's Column
- Continuous 190-meter spiral frieze depicting Trajan's Dacian Wars in 23 windings
- Detailed carved relief featuring 2,662 figures and 155 historic scenes
- Shaft constructed from 20 colossal Carrara marble drums with an internal 185-step spiral staircase
- Base adorned with famous Roman square capitals inscription and captured Dacian arms
- Bronze figure of Saint Peter added to the capital top by Pope Sixtus V in 1587
Visiting tips
To better recognize the narrative across the winding bands, try tracking the recurring figure of Emperor Trajan vertically from ground level.
How long: Under 1 hour · Best time: Daylight hours
How to get there & what’s nearby
Trajan's Column is easy to reach on Rome’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Colosseum and Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Rome travel guide.
See the full Rome travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.