Arch of Septimus Severus

The North African-born Roman Emperor Septimius Severus (r. 193-211) ruled through a program of dynastic succession, militaristic power and architectural revival. He was the first Emperor born in the provinces since Hadrian and Trajan. Idolized for his military successes, having been declared emperor by his troops, Septimius is most well known for his Parthian victories from 194-195. With the military success of the emperor came a dramatic building program in Rome as well as the emperor's city of birth and the world heritage site, Leptis Magna. Part of said building programs, erected to celebrate the triumph of the Parthian victories were two arches dedicated in Rome as well as one dedicated in Leptis Magna. Leptis Magna stands apart from the building programs of Rome, The commemorative arch of Leptis Magna stands as testament to the Severan dynasty, military might, urban revitalization as well as divine acceptance.

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The Arch of Septimius Severus in Leptis Magna