The Obelisk of Aksum is a monumental stone structure located in Aksum, Ethiopia. It stands about 24 meters tall and is made of granite, featuring intricate carvings and inscriptions. The obelisk is believed to date back to the 4th century AD and is associated with the ancient Aksumite Empire, which was a major trading civilization in the region. Originally, the obelisk served as a marker for a royal tomb, symbolizing the power and wealth of the Aksumite rulers. In 1937, it was taken to Italy as a trophy but was returned to Ethiopia in 2005. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant cultural landmark.