The Obelisk in Saint Peter’s Square 1754 - 1765

This sketch of the Obelisk in Saint Peter’s Square was made by Hubert Robert in the 18th century. The obelisk, a symbol stretching back to ancient Egypt, carries deep cultural and historical significance. Originally erected in Heliopolis, obelisks were dedicated to the sun god Ra. They represented rays of sunlight and the divine power of the pharaohs. The obelisk then migrated to Rome, undergoing a metamorphosis. Once a pagan symbol, it was recontextualized at the heart of the Catholic world, and topped with a cross. This appropriation echoes the recurring human impulse to adapt and re-shape symbols of power and spirituality. Consider how this act mirrors the cyclical nature of cultural memory, where symbols are continuously reinterpreted, their meanings layered and transformed across time. The emotional resonance of these symbols is undeniable. Their power transcends their immediate context, engaging us on a subconscious level.