What is depicted on the stone column in Rome?

In Rome, Italy, visitors can admire a 30-meter tall stone column adorned with numerous depictions of the glorious victories of Emperor Trajan, who triumphed over the kingdom of Dacia.

Touring Rome: What's carved on the stone column in Rome?

In the early 2nd century, Emperor Trajan led two splendidly successful campaigns against the might of the Dacian kingdom situated along the Danube River (now Romania). The Dacians had long posed a threat to the Roman empire since the days of Emperor Caesar.

In the first two decades after ruthless plundering raids by Rome and defeats suffered by Trajan's predecessors, the Romans attempted peace negotiations with the Dacians but failed. Emperor Trajan led 10,000 soldiers across the Danube using a massive bridge to invade and defeat the Dacians on their home soil twice in succession.

The conquest of Dacia marked the 19-year reign of Emperor Trajan. This conquest brought in substantial gold and silver, bolstering Rome's finances for further military expansions. With Trajan's passing, Rome reached its zenith in history.

To commemorate this victory, the Roman Senate erected a monumental column in Rome known as Trajan’s Column, depicting significant moments from the war with Dacia through intricate carvings. Originally topped with a statue of Emperor Trajan, it was later replaced with a statue of St. Peter in 1588. Situated at the center of a spacious plaza called the Forum, the column is surrounded by exhibition halls, allowing for a comprehensive view of its reliefs. Both the Forum and Trajan's Column were completed in 113 AD.

The column is adorned with numerous reliefs spiraling from base to summit, showcasing over 2,500 figures across 155 scenes. Emperor Trajan is depicted nearly 60 times, portraying various roles such as leading troops, adjudicating prisoners, and presiding over war councils. Additionally, the column depicts scenes of construction, ceremonies, soldiers, fortresses, ships, and weaponry. However, depictions of violence against enemies are scarce, with a notable scene portraying Dacian women torturing Roman men.

Key scenes in this colossal bas-relief include the Roman army's initial crossing of the Danube River, Emperor Trajan's naval campaign on the river, the surrender of Dacian warriors after the first battle, the destruction of a bridge in the second campaign, the defeat of Dacia, and the death of King Decebalus.

Rome, the capital of Italy and its most populous city, stands as a global tourism hub owing to its rich archaeological treasures, artistic heritage, and unique cultural traditions. Among its numerous attractions are renowned museums (such as the Capitoline, Vatican, and Galleria Borghese), majestic fountains, palaces, memorials, ancient Roman ruins, and catacombs.

Rome ranks as the third most visited city in the European Union, following London and Paris, with an average of 7 to 10 million tourists annually.

Travelers are advised to visit Rome from March to September, avoiding the peak months of June and July due to high tourist traffic and hot temperatures exceeding 30°C. Direct flights to Rome from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are offered by airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Air China, and Singapore Airlines. Return flights from Rome to Vietnam are operated by Etihad Airways, Air Berlin, Emirates, and China Eastern Airlines.

Discover Rome through the lens of adventure on Vnexpress

Unlock the secrets of travel ***

Get insider tips from the ultimate travel guide, Mytour