Erthal-Obelisk, 18th-century obelisk at Domplatz, Erfurt, Germany.
The Erthal-Obelisk is a sandstone monument on Domplatz with a square granite base carved with laurel wreaths and coats of arms. The structure displays fine carved details throughout, showing how the stone was shaped and decorated with care.
Citizens of Erfurt built the monument in 1777 to mark the first visit of Friedrich Karl Joseph von Erthal, the Archbishop of Mainz. The project showed the city's loyalty and respect toward its church leadership.
The monument reflects Enlightenment design ideas by mixing European architectural styles with Egyptian elements that were fashionable in the 1700s. Visitors can read the carved coats of arms and inscriptions on its surfaces, which record the connection between the city and its church authority.
The obelisk sits in the center of Domplatz right next to Erfurt Cathedral and is easy to reach. The paved paths around the monument are accessible and offer clear views from all sides.
Local people raised about 858 talers through public donations to pay for construction, showing how strongly the community supported the project. This kind of citizen involvement was unusual for monument building at that time.
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