The Obelisk (Cleopatra’s Needle) in Central Park
An Ancient Egyptian Monument in the Heart of New York City
Tucked away near the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Obelisk, also known as Cleopatra’s Needle, is the oldest man-made structure in Central Park. Dating back over 3,500 years, this ancient artifact predates the city itself by millennia and stands as a testament to history, culture, and engineering marvels.
A Gift from Egypt to the United States
🏛️ Origin: Carved in 1475 BC, during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III, it originally stood in Heliopolis, Egypt.
🎁 Gifted to the U.S. in 1877 by the Egyptian government as a symbol of friendship and diplomatic relations.
🚢 Transported across the Atlantic on a specially designed ship, arriving in New York in 1880.
🏗️ Erected in Central Park in 1881, using an elaborate winching system—a process that took four months!
A Monument Steeped in Mystery
🔎 The Obelisk is covered in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, some of which honor Pharaoh Thutmose III and Ramses II.
⏳ At over 3,500 years old, it is the oldest public monument in New York City.
💀 A Myth of a Curse? Some believe that moving the Obelisk brought misfortune, but there is no historical evidence to support this.
Why Visit the Obelisk?
📸 A Fascinating Photo Opportunity – A rare chance to see an authentic Egyptian artifact in the middle of NYC.
🎭 A Connection to History – Stand before a structure that has witnessed pharaohs, conquerors, and modern civilization.
🏛️ A Perfect Stop After Visiting the Met – Located just behind the Metropolitan Museum of Art, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Plan Your Visit to the Obelisk
📍 Location: East Side of Central Park, near 81st Street (Behind The Met Museum).
🕒 Best Time to Visit: Morning for fewer crowds, sunset for dramatic lighting.
🎟️ Admission: Free (No ticket required).
Explore The Obelisk with a Central Park Pedicab Ride
Since The Obelisk is located deep inside Central Park, a pedicab ride is the perfect way to reach it effortlessly while enjoying the park’s historic scenery.
🚲 Why Take a Pedicab Ride?
✔ Skip the Long Walks – Reach the Obelisk comfortably.
✔ Expert Guided Tour – Learn fascinating facts & history about this ancient artifact.
✔ Perfect for Photos – Stop for incredible pictures of this ancient relic with the city skyline as a backdrop.
Make Your Visit Special!
🌟 Combine The Obelisk with a pedicab tour to:
✅ See other historic monuments (Bethesda Fountain, The Mall, Bow Bridge)
✅ Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art after the tour
✅ Discover hidden gems of Central Park with a knowledgeable guide
🏛️✨ Book your pedicab ride today and uncover the secrets of The Obelisk in Central Park! 🚲📸🔎
