Hadrian's Arch

Another day of azure blue skies but I was working inside and grabbed this shot nearby over the lunch break. This 132 AD monumental gateway spanned an ancient road from the centre of Athens to the structures on the eastern side of the city, including the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

The monument is made of marble from Mt. Pentelikon which was used for the Parthenon and many other structures in Athens. The arch was constructed without cement or mortar, using clamps to connect the cut stones. Its design is fully symmetrical from front to back and side to side. The base of the arch was buried in earth only to the level of around three feet. Therefore, it was never protected by being buried during its nearly nineteen centuries of existence. It's extraordinary that it entered the modern era almost intact. Although the columns of the lower level are missing, the arch is preserved to its full height and towers over Amalias Avenue. This six-lane dual carriageway leading south from the parliament building makes it look so fragile with the constant stream of cars, taxis and motor bikes thundering past. In fact, in recent decades, atmospheric pollution has damaged the monument with discoloration of the stone and degradation of the inscriptions. I hope it is not allowed to deteriorate any further as it is a gem.

It is said to honour the Roman Emperor Hadrian for his many benefactions. The Ancient Romans were great admirers of Grecian civilization and adopted certain aspects of their architecture.