Porta Settimiana

Porta Settimiana, located at the beginning of Via della Lungara in the Trastevere district, is one of the historic gates of the Aurelian Walls in Rome. Built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Aurelian, the gate owes its name to the Settimia family, probably linked to Emperor Septimius Severus. Its original function was to connect the city with areas outside the walls, a role it has maintained through the centuries, although the structure itself has been modified and restored several times. In fact, the current gate is the result of various interventions, the most significant of which took place in 1498 under Pope Alexander VI Borgia, who enlarged the opening and raised its level compared to the original plan. The current appearance of the gate, with its central arch and Guelph merlons, largely reflects this Renaissance restoration. During the Middle Ages, Porta Settimiana was a crucial passage point for pilgrims heading to St. Peter’s Basilica. The road leading from the gate to the basilica was known as Via Santa, an important artery that facilitated the flow of the faithful. This significant role is emphasized by the numerous medieval documents regulating the maintenance of the gate and the road, often subject to the floods of the Tiber River. During the Renaissance, with the construction of new walls and fortifications, Porta Settimiana gradually lost its military importance and became more of a symbolic and historical structure. However, it remained a significant architectural element in Rome’s urban landscape, framing the entrance to one of the most picturesque and culturally rich areas of the city. An interesting anecdote concerns the restoration of 1498, during the papacy of Alexander VI. It is said that the pope, known for his patronage as well as his controversial reputation, wanted to rebuild the gate not only for practical reasons but also to leave a lasting mark of his pontificate. This intervention took place shortly after the reconstruction of Ponte Sisto, another significant project of the period, which further facilitated access to the city for those coming from Trastevere. Porta Settimiana is also known for its legends and mysteries. Among these, one of the most fascinating is the one that connects it to an ancient temple of Janus, the two-faced god of gates and passages. According to this legend, the gate would have taken its name from “septem Iano laudes,” the seven praises to Janus, erected by Octavian Augustus during a pilgrimage. Although this story is more myth than historical reality, it adds to the enigmatic charm of the gate. From an architectural point of view, Porta Settimiana reflects the historical stratification of Rome. Its walls, merlons, and central arch bear witness to the different epochs and styles that have overlapped. Each restoration, each modification has added a new layer to its history, making it not only a physical access but also a symbol of the city’s continuous evolution. Today, Porta Settimiana is one of the best-preserved gates of the Aurelian Walls. Its urban context has changed radically compared to ancient and medieval times, but the gate remains a point of reference for those exploring Trastevere and its beauties. The neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets, lively squares, and historic churches, is one of the most beloved and frequented in Rome, and Porta Settimiana represents the beginning of this discovery. The gate is also close to important cultural institutions such as the Accademia dei Lincei and the Villa Farnesina, with its splendid frescoes by Raphael. This cultural context further enriches the experience of those visiting Porta Settimiana, offering a complete immersion in the history, art, and architecture of Rome.