Why are there more obelisks in the city of Rome than in all of Egypt?


Why are there more obelisks in the city of Rome than in all of Egypt? The History of the Obelisk in Rome Rome has more obelisks than any other country in the world, including Egypt. We know from records that 48 obelisks were shipped from Egypt to Rome under Roman rule. Today we know of, or should I say, have found only 13 of those originally brought here.


How many obelisks are in Egypt?

Although about 30 ancient obelisks are currently well maintained and stand at the public places (plaza, square, park, etc.), but only 5 remain at the ruins of Ancient Temple in Egypt. And two more obelisks stand at the public space in Egypt. So 7 obelisks in total in Egypt.


Are there more obelisks in Rome than Egypt?

Rome has more obelisks than any other country in the world, including Egypt. We know from records that 48 obelisks were shipped from Egypt to Rome under Roman rule. Today we know of, or should I say, have found only 13 of those originally brought here.


Why are there 13 obelisks in Rome?

The obelisk came to its current location by order of Pope Sixtus V, which wanted each main church in Rome to get an obelisk, so that they could form stops along a pilgrimage path across the city. ON its top, there is the family crest of Sixtus V, three hills with stars surmounted by a cross.


Why are there so many obelisks in Europe?

The planting of obelisks in Europe is a 2,000-year-old habit, started by the Emperor Augustus in his lust for conquest and self-commemoration. In the year 10BC, Augustus ordered the removal of two obelisks, the oldest of which was then 1,300 years old, to Rome.


What city has the most obelisks in the world?

The city of Rome has the most obelisks in the world! 13 true obelisks, stone pillars made from single blocks of stone.


Who stole the obelisk from Egypt?

During the Napoleonic invasion of Egypt, the French attempted to steal the two obelisks and take them back to Paris. The campaign ended before they were successful, but the French did not give up then. A mere 30 years later, the obelisks were “gifted” to the French by the Ottoman monarch Muhammed Ali Pasha.


What did Rome steal from Egypt?

The Romans had such an appetite for obelisks that they not only took them from Egypt, but also carved new ones. They used Egyptian granite, including the especially popular pinkish stone from the quarries at Aswan in the far south.