Cleopatra's Needle

Actually created for Thutmose III in Heliopolis, this obelisk was retrieved in Alexandria, where it had been moved by the Romans. More than 60 feet tall, the spire was sculpted in 1475 BC and later inscribed by Ramses II. The British were given it in 1819 but didn't have the means to move it until 1877. Even after a special ship was crafted for the task, storms almost resulted in the obelisk's loss. In 1878, it finally landed safe and was erected beside the Thames. Later, it was joined by two bronze sphinxes and adorned with plaques relating its history. TUBE: Embankment or Charing Cross