Obelisks

Obelisks have held significant historical and cultural value in various civilizations throughout history. The most well-known obelisks are those of ancient Egypt, which were originally built as monuments to honor the gods and pharaohs.

There are numerous books and authors that get into the relationship between ancient structures, including obelisks, and UFOs, UAPs (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena), or extraterrestrial beings including:

1. Erich von Däniken: A prominent author in the field of ancient astronaut theory, von Däniken wrote “Chariots of the Gods?” (1968) and several other books. He suggests that advanced extraterrestrial beings visited Earth in the past and influenced ancient civilizations, including the construction of monumental structures like obelisks.
2. Zecharia Sitchin: Sitchin’s book series “The Earth Chronicles” explores the possibility of extraterrestrial influences on ancient civilizations, based on his interpretation of Sumerian texts and archaeological evidence. Although Sitchin does not focus specifically on obelisks, his work addresses the broader concept of alien involvement in ancient human history.
3. Graham Hancock: Hancock’s “Fingerprints of the Gods” (1995) and other works investigate the possibility of a lost ancient civilization with advanced knowledge and technology. While he does not explicitly connect obelisks to extraterrestrial beings, his work has been influential in discussions about the origins of various ancient structures.

Here are some historical significances of building obelisks:

1. Religious significance: In ancient Egypt, obelisks were associated with the sun god, Ra. The Egyptians believed that the pointed shape of the obelisk represented a ray of sunlight, and by erecting these monuments, they were connecting the earth with the heavens. Obelisks were often placed in pairs at the entrances of temples to symbolize the protective power of the gods.
2. Commemoration of rulers and events: Obelisks were used to commemorate important rulers, their achievements, or significant events. Inscriptions on the obelisks often detailed the deeds of the pharaohs or celebrated their rule. In more modern times, obelisks have been built to honor national heroes or significant events, such as the Washington Monument in the United States.
3. Architectural prowess: Constructing and transporting massive obelisks was a demonstration of a civilization’s engineering and architectural capabilities. The process of carving, moving, and erecting these monuments showcased the ingenuity and resources of the civilization that built them.
4. Marking important locations: In ancient Rome, obelisks were often placed in prominent public spaces such as circuses, where they served as turning points for chariot races, or in squares to mark important locations. In more modern times, obelisks are sometimes used as focal points in city planning or to mark significant historical sites.
5. Cultural exchange and influence: When ancient obelisks were moved from Egypt to Rome, and later to other cities like Paris, London, and New York, they became symbols of cultural exchange and demonstrated the influence of Egyptian culture on these societies.
6. Art and aesthetics: Beyond their religious or commemorative purposes, obelisks have been admired for their artistic and aesthetic qualities. Their simple, elegant design has inspired architects and artists for centuries.

Overall, the historical significance of building obelisks varies depending on the time and culture in which they were constructed. However, they generally serve as symbols of power, religious belief, and architectural achievement.

Here is a list of the mentioned obelisks with their approximate dates of construction, as well as a few other notable tall and famous obelisks:

1. Washington Monument, Washington, D.C., United States (completed in 1884)
2. Luxor Obelisk, Paris, France (originally erected around 1250 BCE, moved to Paris in 1836)
3. Cleopatra’s Needle (London), United Kingdom (originally erected around 1450 BCE, moved to London in 1878)
4. Cleopatra’s Needle (New York), United States (originally erected around 1450 BCE, moved to New York in 1881)
5. Obelisco Flaminio, Rome, Italy (originally erected in 10th century BCE, moved to Rome in 10 BCE)
6. Lateran Obelisk, Rome, Italy (originally erected around 15th century BCE, moved to Rome in 357 CE)
7. Obelisco di Montecitorio, Rome, Italy (originally erected in 13th century BCE, moved to Rome in 10 BCE)
8. Obelisco Sallustiano, Rome, Italy (erected in 1789)
9. Obelisco del Pincio, Rome, Italy (erected in 1822)
10. Obelisco Agonale, Rome, Italy (originally erected in 13th century BCE, moved to Rome in 1651)
11. Axum Obelisk, Axum, Ethiopia (erected around 4th century CE)
12. Karnak Obelisks, Luxor, Egypt (dates vary, ranging from around 1500-1300 BCE)
13. Hatshepsut’s Obelisk, Karnak Temple, Luxor, Egypt (erected around 1473 BCE)
14. Obelisk of Theodosius, Istanbul, Turkey (originally erected around 15th century BCE, moved to Istanbul in 390 CE)
15. Obelisk of Montecitorio, Rome, Italy (originally erected in 13th century BCE, moved to Rome in 10 BCE)
16. Obelisk of Buenos Aires, Argentina (erected in 1936)
17. Obelisk of Sao Paulo, Brazil (erected in 1970)
18. Obelisk of Axum, Ethiopia (repatriated from Rome, Italy) (originally erected around 4th century CE, moved to Rome in 1937, repatriated in 2005)
19. Obelisk of Marconi, Rome, Italy (erected in 1959)
20. San Jacinto Monument, Texas, United States (completed in 1939) – Although not a traditional obelisk, it is inspired by the obelisk design.

Here are some examples of world currencies featuring obelisks:

1. United States: The U.S. $5 bill features an image of the Lincoln Memorial on the back, with the Washington Monument, an obelisk, visible in the background. The Washington Monument is an iconic symbol of the United States and commemorates George Washington, the first president of the country.
2. Egypt: Egyptian currency, specifically the 50 Piastres banknote, features the Karnak Temple complex in Luxor, Egypt. The obelisks of Karnak are prominent and historically significant monuments in the temple complex, representing the ancient Egyptian civilization’s architectural prowess and religious beliefs.
3. Ethiopia: The Ethiopian Birr has featured the Axum Obelisk on some of its banknotes. The obelisk, an important symbol of Ethiopian history and culture, was repatriated from Italy in 2005 after being taken during the Italian occupation of Ethiopia.

Obelisks have been an enduring symbol of human civilization, showcasing the architectural, religious, and cultural achievements of the societies that created them. From their origins in ancient Egypt to their influence on modern landmarks and city planning, obelisks have transcended time and geography, captivating the imagination of people around the world. Ultimately, obelisks stand as a testament to human ingenuity, reflecting the rich history and shared heritage of our diverse and interconnected world.