This obelisk is one of the pair, the companion is in Piazza del Quirinale. The heights of the both obelisks in Piazza dell'Esquilino and in Piazza del Quirinale are almost same. The obelisk in Piazza dell'Esquilino is higher only 11 cm (4 inches).Probably in the late 1st century, the pair of obelisk was transported from Egypt, in order to decorate the town of Rome. 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 here in 1587 by Pope Sixtus V [reigned 1585-1590], and the latter one is now in the Piazza del Quirinale.
There is no inscription on these obelisks and the one in Vatican City as well. Therefore, I suppose this obalisk is a replica by Romans.
Note: Both Piazza dell'Esquilino Obelisk and Piazza del Quirinale 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 dell'Esquilino, Rome, Italy
Pharaoh: Probably a replica by Romans
Height: 14.75 meters
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