The Obelisk of Senusret, and other obelisks, can be seen throughout the world today. Although they are mostly considered to be ornamental artifacts, obelisks were first constructed for a variety of reasons. At its core, an obelisk is a tall, four-sided pillar, usually made of stone, with a pyramidal shape at the top. It is believed that obelisks were mainly used by the ancient Egyptian and Greek cultures, and later spread to other parts of the world.
In ancient Egypt, the Obelisk of Senusret was an important religious symbol in the Temple of Amen-Re. It is believed to have been erected in the 12th Century BCE and was thought to represent the sun-god Ra and the pharaoh Senusret. In ancient Greek mythology, obelisks were associated with Apollo, the sun god, and the god of the sun’s rays. This connection also linked obelisks to the skies, as they were believed to pierce the heavens.
Aesthetically, obelisks were used in many cultures to add a sense of grandeur to public spaces, temples, and gardens. In Rome, obelisks were often used to mark important locations, such as the center of the city. They were also used in Rome to commemorate the victories of Julius Caesar. Similarly, in France, obelisks are often used to remember great figures in history, such as Napoleon Bonaparte.
The Obelisk of Senusret is believed to have also been used for more practical purposes. This includes measuring time and casting shadows to tell the time of day. It is also believed to be connected to astronomical events such as eclipse prediction. Astronomers employed the use of obelisks to mark the position of the sun and other planets, and to track their orbits.
Today, obelisks are most commonly used as decorative objects. They can be seen in many public spaces, including city squares, parks, and gardens. Many cities now have their own unique obelisk, which often act as iconic landmarks. The Obelisk of Senusret is considered to be the oldest and most important obelisk in the world, and is a symbol of cultural heritage.