This obelisk is one of the pair, the companion is in Piazza dell'Esquilino. The heights of the both obelisks in Piazza del Quirinale and in Piazza dell'Esquilino are almost same. The obelisk in Piazza dell'Esquilino is higher only 11 cm (4 inches).The historians assume that probably in the late 1st century, the pair of obelisk was transported from Egypt, in order to decorate the town of Rome. (Source: "The Obelisk of Egypt" by Labib Habachi, 1977 Charles Scribner's Sons) At some unknown date and by some unknown cause, the obelisk fell. In 1519 and in 1781, two obelisks were discovered underground the entrance of the Great Tomb of Emperor Augustus [Mausoleo di Augusto]. The former one was re-erected in Piazza dell'Esquilino, and the latter one was re-erected here.
It was found in three pieces. Pope Pius VI decided to erect this obelisk between the "horse tamers" in the Piazza del Quirinale. The project took about 4 years and completed in 1786. 32 years later, the large water bowl was placed. The combination of these monuments is very unique.
There is no inscription on these obelisks and the one in Vatican City as well. Therefore, I suppose this obelisk is a replica by Romans.
Note: Both Piazza del Quirinale Obelisk and Piazza dell'Esquilino Obelisk can be seen if you are at the crossing of Four Fountains (Quattro Fontane). In addition, Sallustian Obelisk (Trinita dei Monti Obelisk) also can be seen from here. Namely, three obelisks can be seen from this point.
Stats:
Location: Piazza del Quirinale, Rome, Italy
Pharaoh: Probably a replica by Romans
Height: 14.64 meters
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