Victorian

The Vittoriano, also known as the Altare della Patria, is one of the most emblematic monuments in Rome, located in Piazza Venezia. Its construction, started in 1885 and completed in 1935, was intended to celebrate the first king of united Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II. Designed by architect Giuseppe Sacconi, the Vittoriano is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, characterized by a wide staircase, a portico with imposing columns, and an equestrian statue of the king. The idea of erecting a monument dedicated to Vittorio Emanuele II arose immediately after his death in 1878. The project aimed to commemorate the king and, more broadly, the Italian Risorgimento, the movement that led to the unification of Italy. After an initial international competition won by French architect Henri-Paul Nénot, whose project was then set aside due to nationalistic controversies, a second competition saw the victory of Giuseppe Sacconi, whose design was inspired by great Hellenistic sanctuaries, such as the Altar of Zeus in Pergamon. The Vittoriano is entirely built in Botticino marble, a material chosen for its brilliance and resistance. Its imposing facade, with columns 15 meters high, dominates Piazza Venezia, creating a visual focal point that ideally connects ancient Rome with the modern city. The monument is structured on three levels connected by staircases, with ample spaces reserved for walking and contemplation. At the center of the Vittoriano is the Altare della Patria, an altar dedicated to the goddess Roma and, since 1921, also to the Milite Ignoto, an unidentified soldier who died during World War I, symbolizing the sacrifice of all Italian fallen soldiers. This element has given the monument a role of civil sanctity, making it the quintessential location for Italian official ceremonies. One of the most fascinating features of the Vittoriano is its equestrian statue of Vittorio Emanuele II, created by sculptor Enrico Chiaradia. The statue, 12 meters high and weighing 50 tons, is one of the largest of its kind in the world. The interior of the statue is accessible, and during construction, it was even used as a dining room for the workers, in a curious anecdote that testifies to the exceptional nature of the work. The decorations of the Vittoriano are numerous and symbolic, with sculptures representing the Italian regions, noble cities, and values of the Risorgimento, such as Unity and Freedom. Among these, the statues of the Italian regions stand out, placed on the top of the portico, each depicting an allegorical personification of the respective region. The Vittoriano has experienced moments of great historical importance. During the fascist regime, it became one of the favorite locations for parades and official events. After World War II, the monument continued to be the focal point of national celebrations, such as June 2nd, Republic Day, and November 4th, National Unity and Armed Forces Day. Despite its grandeur and symbolic significance, the Vittoriano has often been the subject of criticism. Some art historians consider it too monumental and out of scale compared to the surrounding urban context. However, its historical and symbolic importance makes it one of the most visited and loved monuments by tourists and Italian citizens. In recent decades, the Vittoriano has undergone significant restoration works aimed at preserving its beauty and making it more accessible to the public. Among these interventions, the installation of a panoramic elevator stands out, allowing visitors to reach the terrace of the monument, from which they can enjoy a spectacular view of Rome. Today, the Vittoriano houses the Museum of the Risorgimento, which tells the story of the unification of Italy through documents, memorabilia, and works of art. This museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge of Italian history in a suggestive and meaningful setting.