The Majestic Obelisk of Montecitorio: Rome's Ancient Marvel
Explore the magnificent Obelisk of Montecitorio, a stunning testament to Rome's ancient history and architectural beauty, located in the heart of the city.
The Obelisk of Montecitorio, an iconic historical landmark in Rome, stands gracefully in the bustling Piazza di Montecitorio. Erected during the reign of Emperor Augustus, this monumental obelisk is a striking piece of ancient Egyptian art, originally crafted in the 15th century BC. The towering structure, made of red granite, rises to a height of 21 meters and is intricately decorated with hieroglyphics that tell the story of its origins and significance. Surrounding the obelisk, the piazza is vibrant and lively, showcasing the heartbeat of Roman life, making it an ideal spot for tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture. As you visit the Obelisk of Montecitorio, take the time to admire the stunning architecture of the nearby Palazzo Montecitorio, which houses the Italian Chamber of Deputies. The juxtaposition of ancient history and contemporary governance encapsulates the essence of Rome as a city that bridges time. The plaza is often filled with locals and tourists alike, offering an excellent opportunity to engage with the city's rich history while enjoying a gelato or sipping coffee at one of the nearby cafés. Don't forget to capture the moment with photos, as the obelisk's grandeur makes for a perfect backdrop. Visiting the Obelisk of Montecitorio is more than just witnessing a historical relic; it’s about experiencing the vibrant life of Rome. The location is easily accessible on foot, making it a great addition to any itinerary exploring the historical sites of the city. Be sure to include this magnificent structure in your travel plans and enjoy everything this remarkable landmark has to offer.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Palazzo Montecitorio for a fuller historical experience.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the significance and history of the obelisk and its surroundings.
- Bring a camera for stunning photos, especially during sunset when the light casts beautiful shadows.
- Try to visit on weekdays when the area is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate exploration.
A brief summary to Obelisk of Montecitorio
- Piazza di Monte Citorio, Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, 00186, IT
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, head towards Rome's city center. You can use the A1 motorway to reach Rome and then follow signs for 'Centro' or 'Piazza Venezia.' Once you reach Piazza Venezia, take Via del Corso and turn onto Via di Monte Citorio. You'll find the Obelisk of Montecitorio located at Piazza di Monte Citorio. Note that parking in central Rome can be challenging and expensive, so plan for street parking or a paid parking garage nearby.
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Public Transportation - Metro
To reach the Obelisk of Montecitorio using public transportation, take the Metro Line A (the red line) and get off at the 'Barberini' station. From there, it's a 15-minute walk. Exit the station and head towards Via del Tritone. Continue straight until you reach Piazza della Repubblica. Turn right onto Via Nazionale and keep walking until you reach Piazza Venezia. From Piazza Venezia, walk up Via del Corso and then turn onto Via di Monte Citorio to arrive at your destination.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If you prefer bus travel, you can take bus lines 30, 81, or 87, which have stops near Piazza Monte Citorio. Check the local bus schedules for the most convenient stop. Once you get off at the bus stop, walk towards the square, which is just a few steps away. Ensure you have a valid ticket, as tickets are required for all public transport in Rome (the ticket costs €1.50 and is valid for 100 minutes).
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Walking
If you're already in central Rome, walking to the Obelisk of Montecitorio is a delightful option. From landmarks like the Pantheon or Trevi Fountain, it's about a 15-20 minute walk. Just head towards Piazza Venezia, then follow the directions provided in the previous options. Enjoy the beautiful sights along the way!
Attractions Nearby to Obelisk of Montecitorio
- Piazza di Monte Citorio
- Palazzo Montecitorio
- Piazza Colonna
- Temple of Hadrian
- Colonna di Marco Aurelio
- Piazza di Pietra
- Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena
- Piazza di Sant'Ignazio
- IKONO Roma
- Piazza del Parlamento
- Chiesa di Sant'Ignazio di Loyola
- Piazza in Campo Marzio
- Targa commemorativa di Pietro Mascagni
- Centro Storico di Roma
- Piazza della Rotonda
Landmarks nearby to Obelisk of Montecitorio
- Colonna Places Pantheon Apartments
- Raphael's tomb
- Il Chianti Vineria
- Fountain of Palazzo Antamoro
- Di Rienzo Pantheon Palace
- Touristation Navona
- Fountain of the Moro
- Fountain of the Moro | Roma
- Rome, Italy
- Palazzo Pamphili
- Column of the Immaculate Conception
- Largo di Torre Argentina
- Piazza Venezia
- Palazzo Massimo alle Colonne
- Statue Romane