Tour of Italy -The Arco Felice

Arco Felice Main

The Arco Felice is a landmark that dates back to ancient times. It was built by the Romans in the 1^st century A.D. during the construction of the Domitiana. (the road that connected Naples and Rome). Because the Roman's always tried to make their roads straight and level, they did not always choose the easiest path. In the case of the Arco Felice, they would not go around the hill nor would they go over it. They went straight through it! The arch was constructed to reinforce the hillside where the road cut through.

Although the upper most portion of the arch has collapsed, the Arco Felice is still an impressive structure. The road that passes beneath the arch is paved with the original cobblestones. It is still in use today. However, because it was constructed in ancient times it is too narrow to allow two-way traffic, so two stop lights have been installed, one on either side of the arch. Traffic from each side passes in turn. (NOTE: This is one of the few stoplights in the Naples area that is usually obeyed.)

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