Obelisk of Augustus

Definition

The Obelisk of Augustus is a monumental structure originally erected in Heliopolis, Egypt, and later transported to Rome by Emperor Augustus around 10 BC. This impressive obelisk stands as a symbol of Augustus's power and his connection to the divine, showcasing his efforts to merge Roman and Egyptian cultures during his reign.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Obelisk of Augustus was originally erected by Pharaoh Psamtik II in Heliopolis, Egypt, highlighting its ancient origins.
2. Augustus brought the obelisk to Rome as part of his efforts to promote his image and legitimize his rule by associating himself with Egyptian pharaohs.
3. The obelisk was erected in the Campus Martius area of Rome, where it was integrated into the design of the Circus Maximus and surrounded by other monumental structures.
4. Inscribed on the obelisk are hieroglyphs that celebrate the achievements of Augustus and connect him with the divine, emphasizing his role as a leader favored by the gods.
5. Today, the Obelisk of Augustus stands at the center of Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, having undergone restoration and preservation efforts throughout history.

Review Questions

• How did the Obelisk of Augustus reflect the cultural and political ambitions of Emperor Augustus?
  • The Obelisk of Augustus represents Augustus's desire to connect himself to ancient Egyptian culture and enhance his political legitimacy. By transporting this monument from Egypt to Rome, he not only showcased his power but also aligned himself with the legacy of powerful pharaohs. The inscriptions on the obelisk further highlight his achievements and divine favor, reinforcing his image as a ruler chosen by the gods.
• Discuss the significance of the location where the Obelisk of Augustus was placed in Rome and how it reflects Roman architectural practices.
  • The placement of the Obelisk of Augustus in the Campus Martius area highlights its importance as a monumental piece within Rome’s urban landscape. This area was strategically chosen for its visibility and centrality, allowing it to be a focal point for both political events and public gatherings. The integration of the obelisk with other monumental structures demonstrates Roman architectural practices that sought to blend cultural influences and create grand civic spaces that showcased imperial power.
• Evaluate how the Obelisk of Augustus serves as a symbol of cultural exchange between Rome and Egypt during Augustus's reign.
  • The Obelisk of Augustus exemplifies cultural exchange between Rome and Egypt through its physical presence in Rome and its inscriptions that reflect both cultures. By bringing this obelisk from Heliopolis, Augustus not only imported an iconic Egyptian symbol but also adapted it within a Roman context to legitimize his rule. This act represents a broader trend during his reign, where blending aspects of Egyptian culture into Roman life helped solidify Augustus's authority while enriching Roman identity with foreign influences.

Related terms

Obelisk: A tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monument with a pyramidion on top, often inscribed with hieroglyphs and used in ancient Egyptian architecture.

Augustus: The first Roman emperor, who ruled from 27 BC until his death in AD 14, known for initiating the Pax Romana and transforming the Roman state.

Ara Pacis: An altar dedicated to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace, built during the reign of Augustus to commemorate his return to Rome after military campaigns.