At the entrance to the Circus Maximus, in 2017, the remains of the second triumphal arch of Titus were found – built during the reign of Domitian – which celebrated the suppression of the Jewish rebellion (66-73 CE).
The building was located in front of the entrance to the Grand Circus, where chariot races were held. This place is located less than a kilometre from another triumphal arch of Titus on the Palatine Hill, which shows, among others, scenes of the looting of sacred Jewish artefacts from the Temple in Jerusalem.
Thanks to this discovery, scientists are able to better understand the prevailing mood and propaganda used in the Roman Empire in the late 1st century CE. Historians cannot recall that in history two monuments were built to celebrate the same victory.
Both arches were built around the same time – 82 CE. – during the reign of Emperor Domitian. Scientists for a long time suspected the existence of a second arch, based on ancient maps of Rome. However, only recent excavations have revealed the remains of a building in the southern section of the Circus.
The building was 17 meters wide and over 10 meters high. It was based on three massive arches, much larger than those seen in the sister building on Palatine Hill. Moreover, the structure was decorated with a bronze statue of Titus riding a four-horse chariot.
Only fragments of columns, ornaments, plinths and decorations showing the legs of soldiers and the face of a legionnaire have survived to this day.
