Trajan's Column: History, Architecture and Roman Symbolism

Trajan's Column: A Masterpiece of Roman Art

Author: Likely under the direction of Apollodorus of Damascus.

Era: Commissioned by Emperor Trajan (Rome, 113 AD).

Location: Situated between the Greek and Roman libraries, behind the Basilica Ulpia, where the magnificent reliefs can be contemplated.

Function: A monument serving as clear political propaganda for the Emperor.

Technical Aspects and Materials

This triumphal column stands 29.78 meters high. It rests on a cubic pedestal decorated with military trophies and inscriptions. A small chamber within the pedestal was designed to house the ashes of the Emperor. The shaft is hollow, containing a spiral staircase that provides access to the top. Originally topped by a statue of Trajan, the monument is an architectural marvel constructed from twenty-nine blocks of marble.

• Construction: The shaft consists of 17 drums featuring continuous relief scenes.
• Visual Design: The height of the relief bands increases progressively toward the capital to ensure visibility.
• Polychromy: While currently colorless, the frieze was originally enhanced with polychrome details and gilt bronze objects.

Theme and Purpose

In cities with a regular plan, the forum was located at the intersection of the decumanus and the cardo. Triumphal columns and victory arches were standard honorable monuments in these spaces. Unlike Hellenistic architecture, Roman columns commemorated specific historical events, following traditions from Egypt and Mesopotamia.

Historical Narrative

The reliefs depict two successful campaigns of Trajan against the Dacians:

• Lower half: The campaign of 101–102 AD.
• Upper half: The campaign of 105–106 AD.

These sections are separated by a personification of Victory. Emperor Trajan is depicted over sixty times throughout the scenes, which illustrate logistics, labor, combat, and the submission of the Dacians.

Composition and Style

The scenes are linked in a continuous narrative. The frieze avoids monotony through the sculptor's varied rhythm. Movement and dynamism are present throughout the work, with intensity shifting according to the specific episode being portrayed.