Here's who usually commissioned the building of obelisks:
* Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt: Obelisks were a prominent feature in ancient Egyptian culture. They were built to honor the gods, commemorate important events, or celebrate the pharaoh's reign.
* Roman Emperors: After the Roman conquest of Egypt, emperors like Augustus and Domitian moved obelisks from Egypt to Rome to adorn public spaces and celebrate their own power.
* Later rulers: Some rulers in later periods, particularly in Europe, commissioned obelisks as well. For instance, the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., was built in the 19th century.
In general, the purpose of an obelisk was:
* Religious: To honor deities or represent their power.
* Political: To commemorate rulers, victories, or important events.
* Symbolic: To represent strength, power, and eternity.
While the specific reasons for commissioning obelisks varied, the overall message remained the same: a statement of power, authority, and enduring legacy.