Vatican obelisk
What to See If you want to visit this place, here is some useful information about it.
First and foremost, the Vatican Obelisk is one of the largest and oldest Egyptian obelisks still standing. It was constructed in Egypt in the 19th century BCE, and later transported to Rome in the 1st century by Emperor Caligula. Its impressive height of over 25 meters immediately catches the eye and commands a majestic presence.
The Obelisk is located in the renowned St. Peter's Square, at the heart of Vatican City. You can admire its elegance and refinement, along with the intricate details of its sculpture. The hieroglyphs engraved on its sides narrate stories of ancient Egypt and add a mystical touch to this ancient artwork.
In addition to its impressive aesthetics, the Vatican Obelisk holds a profound symbolic significance. It is considered a symbol of Christ's resurrection and was placed at the center of St. Peter's Square to remind the faithful of the power of faith. It serves as a gathering place for numerous religious events and symbolizes the historical and spiritual importance of Vatican City.
Tips I'm sharing all my tips here for visiting this place under the best conditions.
Arrive early in the morning
To avoid crowds and have a clear view of the obelisk, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning. You can appreciate the beauty of the monument in a peaceful atmosphere and take great photos without too many people around.
Admire the architectural details
Take your time to observe the architectural details of the obelisk. The engraved hieroglyphics on its surface tell a fascinating story of ancient Egypt. Appreciate the patterns and symbols that have endured through the centuries.
Respect the rules and tranquility of the place
During your visit, make sure to respect the rules and safety guidelines in place. Maintain silence when necessary, especially in a religious context. Contribute to preserving the tranquility of the place to allow all visitors to enjoy their experience.
Explore the Sacred and Artistic Treasures of the Vatican
You stand near the Vatican Obelisk, about to discover two of Rome's most iconic sites:
- The Vatican Museums: Immerse yourself in a world of artistic and historical masterpieces. The halls of these museums hold priceless treasures, from the Sistine Chapel to ancient sculptures. Every corner reveals a glimpse of history and the beauty of humanity. Reserve here or there for an enriching cultural experience!
- St. Peter's Basilica in Rome: Discover the radiant splendor of one of the largest churches in the world. Frescoes, sculptures, and the grandiose architecture of the basilica await you for a visit that combines faith and artistic admiration. Feel the grandeur of this sacred place by reserving here or there.
Information Here are all the useful information about this place (address, opening hours, coordinates, etc.).
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History Every place has its history. Discover all the events that have marked this place here.
An Historical and Exciting Epic
The obelisk is said to come from the city of Heliopolis in Egypt, according to Pliny. It was with unprecedented determination that Caligula, in the year 37, decided to move the obelisk and proudly erect it at the heart of the spina of the Vatican Circus. According to Pliny the Elder, this feat required the construction of an extraordinary ship, the Mirabilis Navis, of a size never seen before (imagine, one hundred and four meters long!).
A Rich and Fascinating History
The spina of the circus, with its majestic obelisk at the center, was located only a few steps away from the south side of St. Peter's Basilica. Do you know who decided to move and restore these symbols of antiquity to proudly place them in front of the main Roman religious buildings? It was Pope Sixtus V. The current location of the obelisk approximately marks the place of crucifixion of the martyrdom of the Apostle Peter, a few meters south of the choir of the Constantinian Basilica, and then of the imposing current basilica. During excavations, the remains of its pedestal were discovered near the current sacristy. This thrilling story captivates you, doesn't it?
St. Peter was the first Pope. This shows that the heart of Christianity emerged from the ruins of the empire that had oppressed it.
The Majestic Obelisk of St. Peter's
Imagine this incredible monument that was part of the famous pilgrimage to Rome. Do you know its nickname? It is called the "needle of Rome" or even the "needle of St. Peter," and some say it may have housed the ashes of Julius Caesar in a bronze sphere surmounted by a pinnacle. This sphere is now exhibited in the museums of the Capitoline Hill.
The Challenge of Transfer and the Giant Machine
You cannot imagine the magnitude of this undertaking. The challenge was to grasp this immense mass, weighing nearly 750 tons, lift it, and transport it to the center of St. Peter's Square, aligned with the ancient basilica. To accomplish this feat, Domenico Fontana, a talented mason, designed a gigantic machine. It took no less than 37 days to move the obelisk a distance of 300 meters from the center of Caligula's circus to its current location. The long-awaited inauguration took place on September 26, 1586, and the Pope exorcised this pagan symbol by placing a bronze cross and a star at the top of its pyramidion.
The Sacred Inscriptions and the Victory of Christ
You will be amazed to learn that the Pope had four sacred inscriptions engraved on the sides of the obelisk's pedestal. They proudly proclaim: "CHRISTVS VINCIT" (Christ conquers), "CHRISTVS REGNAT" (Christ reigns), "CHRISTVS IMPERAT" (Christ commands), and "CHRISTVS AB OMNI MALO / PLEBEM SVAM / DEFENDAT" (May Christ protect his people from all evil). These words, filled with power and faith, remind everyone of the victory of Christ and the protection he offers to his beloved people.
A Must-Visit
If you have the chance to visit Rome, don't miss the opportunity to discover the Vatican Obelisk and St. Peter's Square. Take a stroll around this impressive square, admire the obelisk from every angle, and feel the historical energy emanating from this place. Don't forget to look up to the top of the obelisk, where the bronze cross shines proudly, recalling the fusion of the ancient and the new, of paganism and Christianity.
In conclusion, the Vatican Obelisk is much more than a mere monument; it is a real historical and cultural treasure. Its erection, transfer, and symbolism make it an unmissable part of the Eternal City.
Family If you're visiting this place with your family, I'm sharing some great tips that will delight both kids and adults.
A Monument Full of Mystery and Symbolism
You know, this majestic obelisk is much more than a simple stone monument. It has a millennia-old history that dates back to ancient Egypt and is filled with fascinating symbols. Tell your children the legends and mysteries surrounding this incredible monument. By learning about its origin, they will be captivated by its connection to ancient history and Egyptian civilization. They will be amazed to learn that this obelisk was transported from Egypt to Rome using ingenious techniques of the time. These anecdotes will spark their curiosity and encourage them to explore further.
The Connection between the Obelisk and St. Peter's Square
Do you know the close link between the Vatican Obelisk and the magnificent St. Peter's Square? Explain to your children how this obelisk became a symbol of the square and why it is located right in front of St. Peter's Basilica. They can then observe the obelisk from different viewpoints and understand its significance in this impressive setting.
Explore and Discover!
You're near the Vatican obelisk with your children, and an exciting adventure awaits just steps away. Let me introduce you to two gems to explore:
- Leonardo Da Vinci Experience Museum: Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of one of history's brightest minds. Leonardo da Vinci's inventions and ideas come to life before your eyes, offering an educational and playful experience for you and your kids. Watch the curiosity of your young explorers thrive as they discover the visionary creations of a genius. Book here now.
- VIGAMUS - The Video Game Museum of Rome: Dive into the electrifying universe of video games. This interactive museum lets you explore the history and evolution of this modern art form. From retro games to the latest technological advances, VIGAMUS offers you an immersive experience where fun meets digital culture. Book here.