Arco Clementino

Ancona


Built by Luigi Vanvitelli in 1738, this portside arch takes its name from Pope Clement XII who boosted Ancona's fortunes by declaring the city a free port. Its imposing form was originally designed to impress disembarking mariners and serve as a monumental gateway to the Papal States, of which Le Marche was a part.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Ancona attractions

1. Arco di Traiano

0.08 MILES

At the northern end of the port, the Arco di Traiano is one of Ancona's treasured ancient relics. Built between AD 110 and 116 by a Syrian architect known…

2. Cattedrale di San Ciriaco

0.26 MILES

A stiff but scenic climb up from the old town, Ancona's domed cathedral dominates the city skyline. Guarded by two marble lions, it commands sweeping…

4. Pinacoteca Comunale di Ancona

0.42 MILES

Ancona's fascinating civic art gallery houses Le Marche's most important art collection. Spread over two 16th- to 17th-century palazzi, the museum traces…

5. Chiesa di Santa Maria della Piazza

0.42 MILES

Contrasting sharply with the industrial scenery of the nearby port, the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Piazza is one of Ancona's showpiece churches. Its…

6. Parco del Cardeto

0.44 MILES

The din of central Ancona fades to a distant hum at this 35-hectare park north of the centre. Straddling two hills – the Colle dei Cappuccini and Monte…

7. Teatro delle Muse

0.49 MILES

Overlooking Piazza dell Repubblica, Ancona's ornate theatre has been a city landmark since 1826. Its columned neoclassical facade is capped by Greek-style…

8. Piazza del Plebiscito

0.51 MILES

Crowned by the baroque Chiesa di San Domenico, this sloping cafe-lined square has been Ancona's favourite meeting spot since medieval times. At its head,…