Last weekend we visited the Roman Forum. Here is a photo of part of the Forum, with the Arch of Septimius Severus. It set the standard for all triumphal arches. It is so large that newcomers were led directly past this arch so they would be impressed and intimidated. Here is a close-up photo of one part of it so you can see how detailed it is.We read in a guidebook that Septimius Severus had two sons, Caracalla and Geta. After their father 
died, Caracalla had Geta killed so he wouldn't have to share the power. Geta's name was on the arch though, so Caracalla had it removed. Look at the fourth line of the inscription. See how it is different from the others? It used to say something about Geta, but now it says "Optimis Fortissimisque Principibus" which apparently means "best and most valiant emperors" and refers to his father. Talk about sibling rivalry!
died, Caracalla had Geta killed so he wouldn't have to share the power. Geta's name was on the arch though, so Caracalla had it removed. Look at the fourth line of the inscription. See how it is different from the others? It used to say something about Geta, but now it says "Optimis Fortissimisque Principibus" which apparently means "best and most valiant emperors" and refers to his father. Talk about sibling rivalry!-Terri
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