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The Victor Emmanuel II Monument, often referred to as the Altar of the Nation (Altare della Patria) or simply the Vittoriano, is an imposing structure of white marble situated between Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill. Officially inaugurated in 1911, it provides commanding views of Rome and houses a military museum dedicated to the country’s unification and military history. Locals sometimes call it “The Wedding Cake” or “The Giant Typewriter” in reference to its distinctive shape and vast scale.
The monument features a rich array of allegorical sculptures, stately columns, reliefs, frescoes, and sweeping staircases—an embodiment of early 20th-century architectural grandeur.
Things to Know Before Visit the Altar of The Fatherland
How long did building the Altar of the Fatherland in Rome take?
How much did building the Altar of the Fatherland in Rome cost?
Is the Altar of the Fatherland free?
Why is it called the wedding cake in Rome?
Is Altar of the Fatherland worth it?
Can you go to the top of the Altar of the Fatherland?
How tall is the Altar of the Fatherland?
Why don’t many Romans like the monument to Victor Emanuel II?
What is inside the Victor Emmanuel monument?
Is the Complesso Vittoriano a fascist building?
Is the Complesso Vittoriano a building from Ancient Rome?
History
Construction of this national memorial commenced in 1885 after Giuseppe Sacconi won an architectural competition with his ambitious design.
The project required the demolition of numerous ruins and medieval churches, as well as the partial clearing of the northern section of Capitoline Hill. Sacconi did not live to see his vision fully realized; he passed away in 1905, and the work was completed by Manfredo Manfredi, Pio Piacentini, and Gaetano Koch. In 1911, the Altare della Patria was officially inaugurated on the fiftieth anniversary of the Kingdom of Italy.
Victor Emmanuel II was initially the King of Sardinia and achieved notable victories over the Austrian army in Lombardy. He emerged as a central figure of the Risorgimento—the movement championing Italian unification. After joining forces with Giuseppe Garibaldi and defeating the papal army, Victor Emmanuel was proclaimed King of Italy in 1861. Through continued military campaigns, he eventually secured Venetia and Rome, solidifying his status as a unifying symbol of the Italian nation.
Since 1921, the Altar of the Nation has contained the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, eternally watched over by an honor guard and illuminated by a perpetual flame. The monument itself measures 135 meters in width and 70 meters in height, boasting grand Corinthian columns and a dramatic marble staircase. Crowning the structure is a bronze equestrian statue of Victor Emmanuel II, flanked by two chariots driven by the goddess Victoria.
The Victor Emmanuel II Monument was met with controversy during its construction, as it necessitated the demolition of valuable historical buildings. Many Italians felt that such a colossal edifice overshadowed the ancient surroundings, causing aesthetic and cultural discord.
The monument’s upper section features a sweeping curved colonnade with columns rising to about fifteen meters (50 ft). Its design draws inspiration from the double colonnade of the Domus Augustae, which overlooked the Circus Maximus in ancient times. Within this colonnade are murals and statues representing the various regions of Italy, celebrating both cultural unity and regional identity.
Under Mussolini’s Shadow: The Vittoriano as a Fascist Stage
When Benito Mussolini came to power in 1922, the Vittoriano had already been inaugurated and was essentially complete. Yet he swiftly recognized its monumental potential for political theater. His offices were located in the adjacent Palazzo Venezia—the pinkish building bordering Piazza Venezia—where his now-iconic balcony, marked with flags, still looks out over the square. From this vantage point, Mussolini delivered impassioned orations to crowds, often numbering in the tens of thousands, packing the piazza below.
By draping the Vittoriano in Fascist symbols, Mussolini sought to reshape its original meaning as a national unifier into a showcase for his regime. This appropriation clashed with the monument’s founding ideals of liberty and unity, transforming it into a stage for Fascist propaganda. Following the regime’s downfall, these added emblems were removed, although the association between the dictator and the Vittoriano persists in popular memory.
Today, the Vittoriano continues to dominate Piazza Venezia, bearing witness to Italy’s multifaceted history. Initially conceived as a tribute to the nation’s unification, the monument’s complex chapter under Mussolini serves as a stark reminder of how easily powerful symbols can be reinterpreted—and eventually reclaimed—amid shifting political landscapes.
Bronze Statue of King Victor Emmanuel II
Dominating the central platform of the Vittoriano, the colossal bronze equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II is one of the monument’s most striking highlights.
Visitors can admire its grand scale—about 10–12 meters (33–40 feet) high—and the intricate craftsmanship from the upper terraces. This imposing size was intended to reflect the monument’s central purpose: to honor the first king of a unified Italy with a suitably majestic tribute.
The Dinner Inside the Statue
One of the most extraordinary anecdotes linked to this immense sculpture is the celebratory banquet held inside its hollow body once the casting was complete. Although historical sources differ on the exact date, most place the event around 1909 or 1910, just before the monument’s official unveiling in 1911.
Giovanni Bastianelli, who owned the foundry responsible for the casting, hosted approximately 20 guests—workers, colleagues, and possibly a few dignitaries—seating them at a long table within the horse’s interior.
Period photographs depict them in formal attire, raising their glasses in a toast to mark the completion of this monumental endeavor. The story of this unique feast underscores both the technical prowess required to create such a colossal bronze statue and the pride taken in its accomplishment.
Observation Decks
Exploring the Vittoriano’s observation decks is one of the highlights of any visit. Each level provides unique perspectives on Rome’s historic center—from sweeping panoramas of the ancient forums to close-up views of the monument’s elaborate sculptures. Below are two main options for enjoying the cityscape.
Free Viewing Terraces
Several terraces can be accessed at no charge, offering fantastic views of Trajan’s Forum, Trajan’s Column, Via dei Fori Imperiali, and the Colosseum.
Photographers often time their visits for late afternoon or sunset to capture Rome in a warm, golden light. A café is also available here, where you can purchase snacks and drinks while taking in the scenery.
Paid Panoramic Terrace
For an even more impressive perspective, take the elevator to the top-level panoramic terrace, rising about 80 meters above street level.
This vantage point grants a 360-degree view of the Roman Forum and the city’s historic center, plus an up-close look at the Vittoriano’s iconic chariot statues. As the second-highest observation deck in Rome—surpassed only by the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica—this spot is in high demand, so it’s best to book tickets online in advance. The elevator runs daily from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, with the last entry at 6:45 pm.
The Eternal Flame, Honor Guard, and Bas-Relief
At the heart of the Vittoriano stands the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, inaugurated in 1921 to commemorate the countless Italian soldiers who fell during World War I. An Eternal Flame burns before the tomb, symbolizing the nation’s perpetual gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives. Members of the Italian armed forces maintain a constant Honor Guard, underscoring the monument’s solemn significance and its role as a symbol of national unity.
Behind the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a striking bas-relief statue, often identified as an allegorical representation of Dea Roma (the Goddess Rome).
Flanked by elaborate relief panels, it highlights themes of sacrifice, patriotism, and the enduring spirit of the Italian people. Together, the Eternal Flame, the Honor Guard, and this evocative sculpture create one of Rome’s most poignant and visually arresting panoramas.
Facade Inscriptions and Sculptural Groups
A closer look at the Vittoriano’s façade reveals numerous Latin inscriptions and symbolic statues reflecting the ideals behind Italy’s unification.
Prominently displayed is the inscription CIVIVM LIBERTATI, which translates to “For the Freedom of the Citizens.” This motto underscores the monument’s dedication not only to King Victor Emmanuel II but also to the broader principles of liberty and national unity that guided the Risorgimento.
Flanking the main entrance and rising above the columns are majestic winged Victories, whose outstretched wings and flowing robes represent triumph and the enduring spirit of the Italian people. In addition, several large bronze groups adorn the terraces and balustrades.
These sculptural ensembles typically depict allegorical figures—such as soldiers, patriots, and mythological symbols—invoking themes of sacrifice, heroism, and the collective struggle for independence.
One striking example shows a knight-like figure in chainmail rallying others around him, with a fierce lion at the group’s base. This tableau symbolizes the determination and unity required to overcome foreign domination and establish a single Italian state. Together, these statues and inscriptions form a rich visual narrative, celebrating both the nation’s foundational heroes and the lofty ideals that led to Italy’s modern identity.
The Chariots on the Roof
Often called “Quadrigae,” the two bronze chariots crowning the Vittoriano each feature a dynamic four-horse team driven by a winged allegorical figure.
Rising approximately 10–11 meters (33–36 feet) above the monument’s upper terrace, these monumental sculptures symbolize the triumph of Italian unity and liberty. Their commanding presence and intricate detailing—visible from many vantage points across Rome—serve as a powerful reminder of the nation’s aspirations during the early 20th century.
Whether viewed up close from the Vittoriano’s highest observation deck or admired from a distance, the chariots remain one of the monument’s most iconic and photogenic elements.
The Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Fountains
Two prominent fountains anchor the base of the Vittoriano, each symbolizing one of the seas bordering the Italian peninsula.
The fountain on the left represents the Adriatic, while the one on the right depicts the Tyrrhenian. Both are crowned by reclining figures suggestive of sea gods, highlighting Italy’s deep maritime heritage and unifying geography. The cascading water and classical sculpture provide a striking contrast to the monument’s towering marble facade, underscoring the Vittoriano’s role as both a national symbol and an artistic showcase.
What to See Inside
Inside the Vittoriano, visitors will find the Institute for the History of the Italian Risorgimento and the Central Museum of the Risorgimento, which house a fascinating collection of weapons, flags, and other historical artifacts tracing Italy’s path to unification.
This military museum offers deeper insight into the political, social, and cultural forces that shaped the modern Italian state.
Photography Tips: Best Vantage Points
The Altar of the Fatherland stands prominently in Rome’s skyline and can be seen from many of the city’s hills. For professional photographers and enthusiasts seeking the perfect shot, two vantage points in particular offer especially dramatic views.
Gianicolo Hill
The Janiculum (Gianicolo) Hill is an excellent spot for capturing a side view of the Vittoriano, with the chariot statues framed against the city.
You can shoot from the area near the Acqua Paola fountain or the viewing terrace by the Garibaldi monument. Morning light typically produces the best images here, and a telephoto lens in the 200–500 mm range is recommended to highlight architectural details while still capturing the broader panorama.
Villa Borghese (Pincio Terrace)
Another popular viewpoint is the Pincio Terrace in Villa Borghese, where you can photograph the monument head-on with the rooftops of Rome in the foreground.
A 200 mm focal length is ideal for isolating the Altar of the Fatherland while preserving the context of the surrounding cityscape. The combination of the Vittoriano’s grand facade and Rome’s characteristic skyline makes for a striking composition.
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