Review: The Obelisk at St. Peter's Square

One of the spots that made me stop and gaze the longest in Vatican City wasn’t just the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica… but the towering and powerful simplicity of the “Obelisk” at the center of the square 🌍

🏛️ A Sacred Landmark in the Heart of Religion

This obelisk isn’t just a decorative piece of the city. It’s nearly 2,000 years old! Originally constructed in Egypt, it was moved to Rome during the Roman Empire and later relocated to its current position in 1586, requiring the effort of over 900 people and nearly 100 horses 😲

What’s fascinating is the small cross atop the obelisk, which is believed to contain a fragment of the cross of Jesus Christ, according to Christian tradition. This makes the obelisk not just an ancient symbol but also a focal point of faith.

📸 A View You Can’t Miss

I stood on one of the “small circles” on the square’s ground (called foci) and looked straight at the obelisk and the basilica. The rows of columns align perfectly! It’s a masterpiece of Baroque engineering and art, making you feel like you’re standing in a “stage of time.”

During the day, the obelisk also serves as a sundial! Its shadow falls on the zodiac signs embedded in the stone, reflecting the knowledge and faith of every era.

🌤️ Tips for Travelers
• Visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the sunlight casts a slanting glow, making the obelisk look even more majestic and perfect for photos!
• Don’t forget to find the small circles on the ground near the two fountains – these spots offer the best alignment for capturing the “centered obelisk” shot.
• Listen to the story of how the obelisk was moved, especially the phrase “Water to the ropes!” You’ll realize what a miracle it was to erect this monument.

✨ Final Impression

“The Obelisk at St. Peter’s Square isn’t just a stone pillar… it’s a line connecting the old world with the new, faith with history, and the past with the present in a truly majestic way.”

Post by Winnertraveller | Jul 13, 2025