The Column of Marcus Aurelius: A Chronicle of Empire Carved in Stone
Erected between 180–193 CE in Rome’s Piazza Colonna, the Column of Marcus Aurelius stands approximately 39 meters tall and commemorates the emperor’s military campaigns against the Germanic tribes (the Marcomanni and Sarmatians).
The shaft of the column is wrapped in a spiraling frieze, featuring over 2,000 figures in high-relief sculpture. This detailed narrative unfolds from base to top, depicting Marcus Aurelius’ military expeditions in what could be described as an ancient “graphic novel in stone.” The imagery is not only artistic but also serves as an invaluable historical record.
Atop the column now stands a statue of Saint Paul, replacing the original bronze statue of the emperor. This monument embodies the Roman mastery of monumental sculpture, imperial pride, and the eternal legacy of carved stone storytelling.
