The provenance of this obelisk is not clarified, although many sightseers look at it everyday. Unknown ancient Roman Emperor in the 1st or 2nd century is supposed to have made this obelisk, but the details are unknown. The inscription is same as the one in the Piazza del Popolo. Therefore, this is supposed to be a replica by the Roman Emperor.This was found from the underground of the site of the Sallustian Gardens. Therefore, this obelisk is also called "Sallustian Obelisk". This was supposed to have been here.
In 1734, the era of Pope Clemens XII [reigned 1730-1740], this was transported to the Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano [North of the Basillica di San Giovanni in Laterano], and then remained laying down for 55 years.
In 1789 (1788?), then Pope Pius VI [reigned 1775-1799] erected it in front of the Scalinata della Trinita dei Monti, where is the current site.
It's said that many Romans were afraid that the obelisk is unstable and may topple when the obelisk is erected here, and other Romans also didn't agree with setting up here because the obelisk would harm the beautiful environment. However, these were unnecessary concern. At present, the Spanish Steps is one of the most popular sites in Rome for sightseers. The view from the obelisk site is splendid.
Stats:
Location: The top of the Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy
Pharaoh: Unknown. Probably the Roman Emperor made it in the 1st or 2nd Century.
Height: 13.92 meters
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