How Many Egyptian Obelisks Are in Rome?
When it comes to ancient and iconic structures, Rome is a city that has it all. One of the most fascinating architectural wonders you’ll find scattered throughout the city are Egyptian obelisks. These tall, narrow, four-sided pillars with a pyramid-shaped top have a rich history and add an enchanting element to Rome’s landscape.
The Origins of Egyptian Obelisks
Egyptian obelisks have their roots in ancient Egypt, where they were created to honor gods and pharaohs. These monolithic structures were carved from a single piece of stone and adorned with hieroglyphics that told stories of great significance. Over time, these obelisks became symbols of power and prestige.
During the height of the Roman Empire, Egypt was under its control. The Romans were fascinated by Egyptian culture and often brought back artifacts as spoils of war or symbols of conquest. This included several obelisks that were transported from Egypt to Rome.
The Obelisk in Piazza del Popolo
One prominent example is the obelisk located in Piazza del Popolo, one of Rome’s most famous squares. This 24-meter tall structure was originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt around 1300 BCE but was later moved to Rome by Emperor Augustus in 10 BCE as a symbol of his victory over Cleopatra and Mark Antony.
The obelisk in Piazza del Popolo is made of red granite and weighs approximately 230 tons. It stands on a marble pedestal decorated with four bronze lions at its base. The hieroglyphics on the sides tell stories from ancient Egyptian mythology.
The Obelisk in St. Peter’s Square
Another notable obelisk in Rome can be found in St. Peter’s Square, right in front of the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica. This obelisk, known as the Obelisk of the Vatican, was originally brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula in 37 CE but was moved to its current location by Pope Sixtus V in 1586.
The Obelisk of the Vatican stands at a height of approximately 25 meters and is made of red granite from Egypt. It is surrounded by a square-shaped fountain and four statues representing the four rivers mentioned in the Book of Genesis.
Other Egyptian Obelisks in Rome
In addition to these two prominent obelisks, Rome is also home to several others:
- The Flaminio Obelisk, located at Piazza del Popolo, was brought to Rome by Emperor Domitian.
- The Esquiline Obelisk, located at Piazza dell’Esquilino, was erected during the reign of Pharaoh Psammetichus II.
- The Quirinal Obelisk, located at Piazza del Quirinale, was commissioned by Pope Pius VI and brought from Egypt.
These obelisks are not only architectural marvels but also serve as reminders of the rich history and cultural exchange between ancient Egypt and Rome.
Conclusion
Rome is a city that never fails to captivate visitors with its historical treasures. The Egyptian obelisks scattered throughout the city are a testament to the enduring fascination with ancient cultures and their impact on Roman civilization. Whether you’re strolling through Piazza del Popolo or admiring St. Peter’s Square, take a moment to appreciate these remarkable structures that have stood the test of time.