The Monumental Arch of Palmyra Relocated to Florence

Far from Florence is the ancient city of Palmyra, located in modern day Syria. 

During Palmyra's Roman era in the late 2nd century, large public buildings were erected, including a very large arch built to commemorate a Roman military victory.  The arch, now known as the Monumental Arch of Palmyra, measured about 50 feet tall. 

Over time, the buildings were abandoned and they deteriorated. 

The arch was partially in ruins in the 19th century but it was restored in the 1930's when Palmyra became a sightseeing destination due to its ancient culture and ruins. 

The Monumental Arch of Palmyra in 2010

In 2015, the arch was dynamited and collapsed as a result.  It currently lies in ruins.

During late March 2017, the culture ministers of the G7 convened a Culture Summit in Florence.  In connection with the Summit, a replica of the Monumental Arch of Palmyra was erected in one of Florence's main squares.  The replica is large but not full-sized--about 1/4 of the original arch's size.   

The replica was erected to focus attention on the need for protecting and restoring the world's cultural heritage, whether in Florence, Syria or elsewhere.  The replica is "a symbol of the rebirth and reconstruction of humanity’s cultural heritage, continually at risk from the dangers of humankind and nature."

The Piazza della Signoria , with a replica of the now destroyed Monuental Arch of Palmyra (as seen from the top of the Palazzo Vecchio)

Replica of the Monumental Arch of Palmyra in the Piazza della Signoria, also known as the Triumphal Arch of Palmyra

Replica of the Monumental Arch of Palmyra, also known as the Triumphal Arch of Palmyra

Although the actual arch in Palmyra was knocked down, the stones of the arch are still there.  So, some day, once the fighting in Syria subsides, the Monumental Arch of Palmyra will be reconstructed one more time.  Let's hope that day arrives soon.