Il Vittoriano, also known as the Wedding Cake or the Typewriter, is located in the heart of Rome near the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. It was strategically built on the Capitoline Hill to draw attention to its power and prestige. It is also referred to as the Alter of the Fatherland. It is a symbol for the unified Italy and houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was built to honor Vittorio Emanuel II, Italy’s first king. Every design of the building has a meaning. The sixteen columns correspond to the sixteen provinces of Italy. It reflects new, modern values of Rome, yet everything is a reference to classical Rome, its military, or to the ideals/values of the Republic. The architecture of the building describes a new origin story for nation-state of Italy. This is a building dedicated to the state and the military of Italy. It was built directly opposite the Vatican to act as a jab at the Catholic Church’s power and influence. This building’s unique architecture shows that Italy is new and different yet its decor pays tribute to Rome’s history. The large size and central location draws attention to the building and what it stands for. The building was temporarily reappropriated by Mussolini during the reign of fascism.
lholbroo
12 chapters
16 Apr 2020
Rome, Italy
Il Vittoriano, also known as the Wedding Cake or the Typewriter, is located in the heart of Rome near the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. It was strategically built on the Capitoline Hill to draw attention to its power and prestige. It is also referred to as the Alter of the Fatherland. It is a symbol for the unified Italy and houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It was built to honor Vittorio Emanuel II, Italy’s first king. Every design of the building has a meaning. The sixteen columns correspond to the sixteen provinces of Italy. It reflects new, modern values of Rome, yet everything is a reference to classical Rome, its military, or to the ideals/values of the Republic. The architecture of the building describes a new origin story for nation-state of Italy. This is a building dedicated to the state and the military of Italy. It was built directly opposite the Vatican to act as a jab at the Catholic Church’s power and influence. This building’s unique architecture shows that Italy is new and different yet its decor pays tribute to Rome’s history. The large size and central location draws attention to the building and what it stands for. The building was temporarily reappropriated by Mussolini during the reign of fascism.
Create your own travel blog in one step
Share with friends and family to follow your journey
Easy set up, no technical knowledge needed and unlimited storage!
© 2025 Travel Diaries. All rights reserved.