A
triumphal arch is a monumental structure in the shape of an
archway with one or more arched passageways, often designed to span a road. In its simplest form a triumphal arch consists of two massive
piers connected by an
arch, crowned with a flat
entablature or
attic on which a statue might be mounted or which bears commemorative inscriptions. The main structure is often decorated with carvings, sculpted reliefs, and dedications. More elaborate triumphal arches may have multiple archways.