Cleopatra's Needles

Autor*innen

• Bob Brier

Parameter

• 248 Seiten
• 9 Lesestunden

• Ägypten
• Altertum
• Historisches Thema
• Sachliteratur
• Wissenschaft

Mehr zum Buch

In the half-century from 1831 to 1881, three monumental obelisks journeyed from Egypt to new destinations, marking a significant engineering feat reminiscent of the Renaissance's Vatican obelisk, moved in 1586. While Roman emperors transported numerous obelisks, they left no records of their methods. Nineteenth-century engineers faced the challenge of devising innovative techniques to transport these ancient structures across oceans, uncertain if their plans would succeed. As the obelisks made their way to Paris, London, and New York, the world eagerly followed their progress through newspaper reports featuring dramatic illustrations of the engineers' heroic efforts under challenging conditions. Upon their arrival, celebrations ensued, with bands playing the Cleopatra's Needle Waltz and fashionable ladies donning silver obelisk-themed jewelry. This vibrant period, characterized by a fascination with obelisks, is vividly brought to life through personal letters, diaries, newspaper articles, and illustrations. The narrative captures the remarkable stories of those involved in the obelisks' transport and reception, providing insight into their experiences. Authored by a renowned Egyptologist, this engaging account will captivate anyone interested in Egypt's iconic monuments and the history of remarkable human endeavors.

• Sprache: Englisch
• Erscheinungsdatum: 2021
• Einband: Paperback