Discover the History Behind the Obelisk, the Ancient Precursor to the Skyscraper
Before there was the skyscraper, ancient builders created the original tall, imposing structure: the obelisk. With origins in ancient Egypt, these four-sided structures were typically erected in commemoration of the rulers and spread in popularity across the ancient world— including ancient Rome and Assyria. Even after the end of these civilizations, the obelisk continued to be a popular monument for its striking yet simple design.