Ancona has always been a city open to the sea, with monumental gates and arches welcoming travellers arriving by land and by ship.
This guide presents the three main historic gateways of Ancona: Porta Pia, the Arch of Clement (Arco Clementino) and the Arch of Trajan.
Porta Pia
Porta Pia is the monumental city gate facing the sea, built between 1787 and 1789 on a design by architect Filippo Marchionni for Pope Pius VI.
Located at the entrance to the Archi district, it marks the passage between the harbour and the historic centre, with a richly decorated outer façade in Istrian stone and a simpler inner side.
Today it is a symbol of Ancona’s link with the sea and a scenic starting point for a walk towards the Mole Vanvitelliana and the city centre.
Arch of Clement (Arco Clementino)
The Arch of Clement, known in Italian as Arco Clementino, is an 18th‑century monumental arch overlooking the harbour, dedicated to Pope Clement XII.
This stone arch with a single opening and baroque inscriptions was conceived as a grand city gate for those arriving in Ancona by sea.
Standing close to the piers, it forms a visual pair with the Roman Arch of Trajan and recalls Ancona’s role as a papal and commercial port.
Arch of Trajan
The Arch of Trajan is a Roman triumphal arch built in 115–116 AD to honour Emperor Trajan, who financed the enlargement of the harbour of Ancona.
Placed on the outer mole of the port, this elegant marble arch, about 18 metres high with Corinthian columns, served as a monumental gateway from the sea to the city in Roman times.
Today it is one of the most iconic landmarks of Ancona and offers a beautiful panoramic view over the harbour and the Adriatic Sea.
FAQ
Q: What are the main historic gates and arches in Ancona?
A: The main monumental gateways are Porta Pia, the Arch of Clement (Arco Clementino) and the Roman Arch of Trajan.
Q: Where are Porta Pia and the Arch of Trajan located?
A: Porta Pia stands at the entrance to the Archi district between the harbour and the centre, while the Arch of Trajan is on the outer mole of the port.
Q: Can I visit all three in one walking itinerary?
A: Yes, they can be easily combined in a harbour and city walk that includes Porta Pia, the Arch of Clement, the Arch of Trajan and the nearby Mole Vanvitelliana.