“Macuteo” Pantheon obelisk at piazza della Rotonda

The Macuteo obelisk, located in front of the Pantheon in Piazza della Rotonda, holds significant historical value as it dates back to the time of Pharaoh Ramses II, who reigned from 1279 to 1213 BC. This ancient monument originally stood in Emperor Domitian’s sanctuary of Isis, reflecting the Romans’ fascination with Egyptian culture during the Imperial period. Its inscribed name cartouches bear witness to its origins in Heliopolis, underscoring the obelisk’s connection to ancient Egyptian religious practices. Today, it serves as a monument to Rome’s diverse history and the evolution of cultural heritage from antiquity to the present.

The Macuteo obelisk is one of 13 ancient obelisks that remain in Rome, each varying in height, design, and historical background. Measuring 6.34 meters tall (or 14.52 meters, including its base), it is one of the taller examples, yet it is not the most prominent; the Vatican’s St. Peter’s obelisk is the tallest in the city. Unlike some other obelisks which were erected in the Pharaonic period and remain largely intact, the Macuteo obelisk was re-erected during the Baroque period in 1711 by Pope Clement XI, enhancing its narrative with a fountain that adds to the aesthetic of Piazza della Rotonda. The obelisk’s pairing with the adjacent Obelisco Matteiano at the Villa Celimontana further illustrates the cultural exchange and influence between ancient Egypt and Roman traditions.

The base of the Macuteo obelisk features a richly designed late Baroque fountain, which was added by Pope Clement XI in 1711. This fountain is not only ornamentally significant but also serves a functional purpose, adding beauty and refreshment to the square. At the base of the obelisk, you can find intricate sculptures and shapes that complement the monolith’s grandeur. The inscription on the base documents the papal initiative and reflects the artistic styles prevalent during that era, making the entire setting a captivating tableau that tells the story of artistic and architectural advancement in Rome.

The fountain that adorns the Macuteo obelisk is designed in the late Baroque style, characterized by its elaborate and dynamic forms. This architectural period, which flourished in the 17th and 18th centuries, emphasizes grandeur and ornamental detail, aiming to evoke emotion and movement. The fountain features flowing lines and decorative elements that harmonize beautifully with the ancient obelisk it supports. Its design provides a stark contrast between the ancient Egyptian aesthetic of the obelisk and the exuberant artistic tendencies of Baroque Rome. Visitors can appreciate this blend of old and new as they observe the details of the fountain, which enhances the overall visual experience in Piazza della Rotonda.

The excavation of the Macuteo obelisk, believed to have occurred either in 1373 or 1575, involved techniques that were primarily historical rather than modern archaeological methods. During this time, the process of locating, uncovering, and transporting ancient artifacts relied heavily on manual labor, rudimentary tools, and a keen knowledge of historical records. Maps and oral histories likely guided workers to the site of the obelisk. Once located, it would have taken considerable effort to remove dirt and other debris, revealing the monument. The significance of this excavation lay in its contribution to understanding and preserving Rome’s ancient history, even if less is known about the specific methods used during those early excavations.