Altar of the Fatherland

"After lunch, continue your sightseeing to the controversial layered "wedding cake” more formally known as the Victor Emmanuel II Monument or “Vittoriano.” Built to honor the first king of a unified Italy following the Risorgimento, it is an enormous and elaborate example of grandiose Neoclassical architecture which was initially met with public criticism from locals who found it to be an eyesore. The overly ostentatious white marble, towering columns, and intricate sculptures stand in stark contrast to the surrounding architecture, lacking the subtle refinement of ancient Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and Renaissance structures. But more importantly, a significant portion of Rome's historical fabric was demolished to make way when it was constructed. This included medieval churches, Renaissance palaces, and a large section of the Capitoline Hill, a major center of ancient Roman religion and government, leading to a loss of historic heritage many felt could not be justified by the construction of the new monument. In theory, the monument was meant to symbolize the birth of the modern Italian state, invoking national pride in this solemn tribute to Italy’s unified identity. Adding another layer to these tiers of complexity, the monument was also unfortunately co-opted by Mussolini’s regime during the Fascist era, tainting its image further as it became a site for Fascist rallies and ceremonies. With all this context in mind, many today consider this well-intended landmark to be more of a triumphal statement of power than a true artistic merit. Nonetheless, today you can tour the Vittoriano and Great Garden of Palazzo Venezia for free daily from 9:30 AM - 7:30 PM, with the last entry available at 6:45 PM. In the front of this structure, you’ll find the home of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was added in 1921 after World War I. Honoring the sacrifice of all those who fought for Italy, an eternal flame burns at the tomb and the site is guarded by soldiers 24/7. To take in one of the best panoramic views of Rome, you’ll have to pay the €17 entry fee to access this rooftop terrace located at the monument's highest point from which you can see a 360-degree view of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and St. Peter's Basilica. This ticket also grants you access to the Sommoportico, the Central Museum of the Risorgimento, and Palazzo Venezia."

"The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (Italian: Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II), also known as the Vittoriano or Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), is a large national monument built between 1885 and 1935 to honour Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy, in Rome, Italy. It occupies a site between the Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill. The monument was realized by Giuseppe Sacconi. The monument is a massive white marble structure that is over 130 meters high. It is decorated with a variety of statues, columns, and reliefs. The most notable feature of the monument is the equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II, which is located at the top of the monument. The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is a popular tourist destination, and it offers stunning views of the city. It is also a significant historical site, as it is a reminder of the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Here are some additional details about the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II: The monument is made of white marble from Carrara, Italy. The monument is 135 meters high, 130 meters wide, and 70 meters deep. The monument is decorated with over 200 statues and reliefs. The monument is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is located at the base of the equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II. The monument is open to the public, and visitors can climb to the top of the monument for stunning views of the city. The Monument to Victor Emmanuel II is a controversial monument, and it has been criticized for its size, its style, and its cost. However, it is also a significant historical site and a popular tourist destination. "

"The Altar of the Fatherland, also known as the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, is a massive monument located in the heart of Rome, Italy. It was built to honor the first king of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II, and to celebrate the unification of Italy in 1870. The monument was designed by Giuseppe Sacconi and construction began in 1885. It took 40 years to complete and was inaugurated in 1911. The monument is made of white marble and features a large central building with two wings on either side. The central building houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is guarded by two soldiers 24 hours a day. The Altar of the Fatherland is one of the largest monuments in Rome, and it is also controversial. Some people love the monument for its grandeur and beauty, while others dislike it for its size and its impact on the surrounding area. The monument is so large that it blocks the view of the nearby Roman Forum, and many people feel that it is out of place in the historic center of Rome. Despite the controversy, the Altar of the Fatherland remains an important symbol of Italian unity and a popular tourist attraction in Rome. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument to enjoy stunning views of the city, and they can also visit the museum inside the monument to learn more about Italian history and culture."