Arch of Mettius Modestus, Patara, Antalya, Turkey
Arch of Mettius Modestus, built c. 100 AD to celebrate the completion of an aqueduct to bring water to the city, Patara, Antalya, Turkey. This triple-vaulted triumphal arch is composed of 4 massive piers connected by 3 arches. It functioned as the final part of the aqueduct built by Trebonius Proculus Mettius Modestus, governor under the emperor Trajan. It was originally decorated with statues of him and his family on the twelve projecting consoles. In the background we can see the continuing archaeological excavations. Patara was a maritime Greek and Roman city on the South West Mediterranean coast of Lycia near modern-day Gelemis. It was said to be founded by Patarus, son of Apollo, and was famous for its temple and oracle of Apollo. It was a leading city of the Lycian League. Picture by Manuel Cohen
