Obelisks of Nectanebo II, Egyptian obelisks in the Great Court, British Museum, United Kingdom
The pair of black siltstone obelisks, each measuring 1.74 meters in height, features hieroglyphic inscriptions on multiple faces that record their dedication to Thoth.
Originally located in Hermopolis, the obelisks were discovered in the 18th century and captured from French forces before being presented to King George III in 1802.
The vertical inscriptions on these monuments provide direct evidence of Egyptian religious practices and the special status of Thoth as the principal deity of Hermopolis.
The obelisks are permanently displayed in the Great Court of the British Museum, which offers free admission and operates regular opening hours throughout the week.
These monuments represent the last architectural works commissioned by an indigenous Egyptian pharaoh before the Persian conquest of Egypt in 343 BCE.
Location: London
Inception: 4 century BCE
Website: http://britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/aes/b/obelisks_of_nectanebo_ii.aspx
GPS coordinates: 51.51944,-0.12694
Latest update: March 3, 2025 11:40
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