Obelisks are tall, four-sided, narrow tapering monuments that rise to a pyramidion at the top. They are typically made of stone and were originally erected in ancient Egypt to honor the sun god Ra. Obelisks often feature hieroglyphs that commemorate significant events or rulers. These structures were usually placed in pairs at the entrances of temples. Over time, many obelisks were transported to different locations, including Rome and New York City, where they serve as historical landmarks. Today, they are admired for their architectural beauty and cultural significance.