Porte Noire
A remarkable 2nd-century Gallo-Roman triumphal arch in Besançon, honoring Emperor Marcus Aurelius with intricate, time-worn carvings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Porte Noire
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkable 2nd-century Gallo-Roman triumphal arch in Besançon, honoring Emperor Marcus Aurelius with intricate, time-worn carvings.
"This is the most astounding piece I’ve seen in Besançon, a remarkable remains of a Gallo-Roman triumphal arch."
📸 Capture the Details
Take time to notice the worn but beautiful carvings on the columns; they tell a story of ancient artistry.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through the Park
Enjoy the quiet street and small, shaded park nearby for a moment of relaxation after viewing the arch.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gallo-Roman Triumphal Arch
Besançon City Center
An astounding 2nd-century AD Roman arch, a remarkable testament to history with worn but visible intricate details.
Intricate Column Details
Porte Noire
Marvel at the surviving plant motifs and mythological themes carved into the columns, a glimpse into ancient artistry.
Cathedral of Saint John Entrance
Adjacent to Cathedral
The arch serves as a picturesque gateway, perfectly framing the entrance to the historic Cathedral of Saint John.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Porte Noire
Understanding Porte Noire's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Staying in Besançon for 2 weeks - any tips?
📸 Capture the Details
Take time to notice the worn but beautiful carvings on the columns; they tell a story of ancient artistry.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through the Park
Enjoy the quiet street and small, shaded park nearby for a moment of relaxation after viewing the arch.
Recommendations on where to visit on the East of France?
🏛️ Combine with Cathedral Visit
The arch is a perfect entrance to the Cathedral of Saint John, making it a great two-in-one historical stop.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Details
Take time to notice the worn but beautiful carvings on the columns; they tell a story of ancient artistry.
🚶♀️ Stroll Through the Park
Enjoy the quiet street and small, shaded park nearby for a moment of relaxation after viewing the arch.
🏛️ Combine with Cathedral Visit
The arch is a perfect entrance to the Cathedral of Saint John, making it a great two-in-one historical stop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Porte Noire to be an astounding and remarkable piece of history, a well-preserved Gallo-Roman triumphal arch with intricate details. Its location as an entrance to the Cathedral of Saint John is also highly praised. Some reviews mention past construction that briefly hindered the view.
"Because there was construction it was hard to see this piece with all of its glory."
Öykü Acarel
"Somehow this is the most astounding piece I’ve seen in Besançon."
bahhoo
"A remarkable remains of a Gallo-Roman triumphal arch in honouring emperor Marc Auréle. It's supposedly dated to around 175AD according to information available. Though the details of the highly decorative columns are a bit worn, undoubtedly due to its age, you can still see most of the finer details of plants motifs and mythological and combating themes. This is the perfect entrance and exit to the Cathedral of Saint John of Besançon."
Antoine M
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porte Noire is centrally located in Besançon, making it easily accessible on foot if you're staying in the city center. Public transport options are also available, with several bus routes stopping nearby.
Yes, Porte Noire is situated on a quiet street, often described as a pretty gate, making it straightforward to locate.
Walking is highly recommended to fully appreciate the arch and its surroundings, including the adjacent park and Cathedral.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Porte Noire is an outdoor historical monument and is generally free to view. No tickets are required to admire its exterior.
As an open-air monument, Porte Noire can be viewed at any time. However, the surrounding park and the Cathedral of Saint John will have their own specific operating hours.
No, there is no entrance fee for Porte Noire. It's a historical landmark accessible to the public.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Porte Noire is a Gallo-Roman triumphal arch built around 175 AD to honor Emperor Marcus Aurelius. It's a remarkable ancient ruin with detailed carvings.
Yes, you can get quite close to Porte Noire to examine its architectural details and historical significance.
Besides the arch itself, you can explore the nearby shaded park and the impressive Cathedral of Saint John of Besançon, which it serves as an entrance to.
Absolutely! The arch, especially with the Cathedral in the background, makes for beautiful and historic photographs.
Some visitors have noted that construction in the area could sometimes make viewing difficult, but the arch itself is considered astounding.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making it a short, engaging stop. Point out the different shapes and figures on the arch and imagine what life was like when it was built. Combining it with a visit to the Cathedral can add another layer of historical exploration, making it a more comprehensive outing for the family.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Take your time to study the details and imagine the original splendor of the monument. Its integration into the urban landscape, serving as an entrance to the Cathedral of Saint John, provides a unique perspective on how historical layers coexist in Besançon. It's a prime example of Roman legacy in France.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of Porte Noire
The architectural style reflects the typical Roman triumphal arch, designed to commemorate military victories or honor emperors. Its placement in the city center, adjacent to the Cathedral of Saint John, highlights its historical importance and integration into the urban fabric over centuries. The arch is not just a historical artifact but also a picturesque gateway, framing the entrance to the cathedral and creating a visually striking juxtaposition of different historical eras.
While the exact original context of its construction is debated, its survival makes it one of the most astounding pieces of ancient architecture in Besançon. Visitors often remark on the ability to still discern the finer details despite the erosion, a testament to the skill of its creators. It's a must-see for anyone interested in Roman history and architecture.
Experiencing Porte Noire Today
Many visitors find the experience enhanced by combining their visit with a tour of the adjacent Cathedral of Saint John of Besançon. The arch serves as a natural and beautiful entrance to the cathedral, creating a seamless historical journey. The contrast between the ancient Roman structure and the medieval cathedral is particularly striking and offers excellent photographic opportunities.
While the arch itself is the main attraction, the surrounding area offers a pleasant environment for a leisurely stroll. The presence of the park allows for a moment of respite, making it a well-rounded historical and scenic stop within the city of Besançon.
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