Arch of Constantine Damaged by Lightning in Rome

The Arch of Constantine in Rome was significantly damaged by a lightning strike during a severe storm on September 3, 2024, which also caused flooding and uprooted trees across the city. Built in the 4th century AD to commemorate Emperor Constantine's victory over Maxentius, the 25-meter-tall arch is a major tourist attraction located next to the Colosseum. Witnesses reported seeing large stone blocks fall from the monument, and conservation staff have begun recovery and damage assessment efforts. The storm resulted in 60 millimeters of rain in less than an hour, an amount typically expected over an entire month during autumn. The archaeological park had already scheduled conservation work on the arch just two days prior to the incident, which will now also address the recent damage. Officials described the weather event as unprecedented due to its intensity and concentrated impact on the city's historic areas.