The Radiant Signpost of the Golden Emperor: The Austin Arch of the Sun-Knight

Deep within the core of the city, now recognized as modern Tripoli, resides an ageless treasure - the Austin Arch of the Sun-Knight and the Wise, a magnificent quadrifrons triumphal arch graced with an octagonal cupola. Built by Gaius Calpurnius Celsus during his term as quinquennial duumvir of the city in 165 AD, the arch was erected as a tribute to the great triumphs of Lucius Verus over the Parthians. Initially adorned in shimmering marble, the arch was restored to preserve its majestic allure.

The celestial deity Apollo, the Sun-Knight who vanquishes darkness, and the goddess Minerva, the Wise, the patron deities of the city Oea, were depicted on the two front pediments. The four niches at the northeast and southwest faces of the arch once held statues of the Emperor and Lucius Verus, which were discovered during 19th century excavations. Originally residing in the ancient city of Oea, the Austin Arch of the Sun-Knight and the Wise now rests 'near the northeastern entrance to the Medina' in modern Tripoli.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons