Cleopatra's Needle: Ancient Egyptian Obelisk on London's Thames Embankment

An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.

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Cleopatra's Needle

Cleopatra's Needle is an ancient Egyptian granite obelisk nearly 3,500 years old, standing prominently on the Victoria Embankment beside the River Thames in London. Gifted by Egypt's ruler Muhammad Ali in 1819 to commemorate British naval victories, it was erected in London in 1878 after a perilous sea journey. Flanked by two bronze sphinxes, this iconic monument is steeped in history, mystery, and legend, offering visitors a tangible link to ancient Egypt amidst a vibrant urban setting.

A brief summary to Cleopatra's Needle

London, WC2N 6NU, GB
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 1 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate hieroglyphs and the surrounding riverside views.
Explore nearby Embankment Gardens for a relaxing break amid statues and greenery after viewing the obelisk.
Use the Embankment Underground station for easy access; the monument is a short walk from the station exit.
Look for the bronze sphinxes beside the obelisk, notable for their World War I shrapnel marks.

Getting There

Underground

Take the London Underground to Embankment station, served by the District, Circle, Northern, and Bakerloo lines. The station is about a 3-5 minute walk from Cleopatra's Needle. Tickets cost between £2.50 and £6.00 depending on travel zones and ticket type.
Bus

Several bus routes stop near Victoria Embankment, including routes 6, 9, and 139. Travel times vary by traffic but generally range from 15 to 30 minutes from central London areas. Single fares are approximately £1.75 with an Oyster or contactless card.
Riverboat

Use the Thames Clippers riverboat service to Embankment Pier, a short walk from the obelisk. Services run frequently during the day, with fares from £6 to £12 depending on the route and ticket type.
Walking

If staying nearby, walking to Cleopatra’s Needle along the Thames Embankment is pleasant and accessible, taking around 10-20 minutes from Trafalgar Square. The path is flat and suitable for most visitors.

Cleopatra's Needle location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Cleopatra's Needle

Origins and Ancient Significance

Cleopatra's Needle is an imposing granite obelisk carved around 1500 BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III in Heliopolis, ancient Egypt. Originally standing in pairs at the entrances of Egyptian temples, this obelisk was later relocated to Alexandria around 12 BCE, a city famously associated with Cleopatra VII, hence its popular but inaccurate nickname. The monument is inscribed with hieroglyphs celebrating the pharaoh's achievements and various Egyptian deities, embodying the architectural and religious grandeur of ancient Egypt.

A Gift Marking Military Triumphs

The obelisk was presented to the United Kingdom in 1819 by Muhammad Ali, the viceroy of Egypt and Sudan, as a diplomatic gift honoring British victories at the Battle of the Nile (1798) led by Admiral Nelson and the Battle of Alexandria (1801) under Sir Ralph Abercromby. Despite the early gift, the obelisk remained in Alexandria until 1877, when efforts to transport it to London commenced. The journey was fraught with danger, including a storm that caused the vessel carrying the obelisk to be cut loose, resulting in the loss of six crew members and nearly losing the monument at sea.

Victorian Engineering and London Placement

After its rescue and arrival in London in 1878, Cleopatra's Needle was erected on the Victoria Embankment, a modern riverside promenade built to conceal London's sewer system. The obelisk stands between the Golden Jubilee and Waterloo Bridges, flanked by two bronze sphinxes cast locally in 1881. These sphinxes bear shrapnel damage from a German air raid during World War I, adding layers of history to the site. The monument's placement on a symbol of Victorian progress juxtaposes ancient heritage with London's industrial age.

Legends, Mystique, and Cultural Impact

Over the years, Cleopatra's Needle has accrued a reputation for mystery and occult power, with tales suggesting it emanates a curse influencing tragic events, including suicides and even the crimes of Jack the Ripper. Although these stories are folklore, they contribute to the obelisk's enigmatic allure. The monument has also inspired artistic and literary works, symbolizing the intersection of ancient magic and modern myth.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Today, Cleopatra's Needle is a prominent historical landmark attracting visitors interested in ancient Egypt and London's layered history. Its location on the bustling Victoria Embankment offers scenic views of the Thames and proximity to other cultural sites such as the Embankment Gardens and nearby theatres. The site is accessible via Embankment Underground station and is surrounded by amenities including seating areas and information boards.

Preservation and Legacy

The obelisk is carefully preserved as a testament to ancient craftsmanship and Victorian ambition. It stands not only as a monument to historical military victories but also as a symbol of cultural exchange and the enduring fascination with Egypt’s ancient civilization. The bronze sphinxes and the embedded time capsule beneath the needle further enrich its story, linking past and present in a unique urban setting.

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