On the spot where the Palazzo Chigi now stands (_on our right_) a
temple was erected to M. Aurelius, in front of which was placed a
splendid pillar, with a spiral frieze winding up the shaft, and
representing the chief incidents of the war against the Marcomanni
(A.D. 174).
[Illustration: COLUMN OF MARCUS AURELIUS.]
The shaft of this pillar is of precisely the same height as that of
the Pillar of Trajan. The pedestal, on the other hand, is much higher,
and rises considerably above the level of the modern pavement. The
present marble facing of this pedestal has been employed to strengthen
the foundations of the monument, which had been much injured. The
pillar, after having been frequently struck and much damaged by
lightning, was restored, at the command of Sixtus V., by Fontana and
his nephew Carlo Maderno. Looking up, we perceive the iron cramps used
to keep together the blocks of marble, which had slipped out of their
original position. But for this support, this fine monument would long
since have sunk beneath the pressure of its own weight.
The sculptures are very interesting, but can no more be enjoyed on the
spot than those on the Pillar of Trajan. They represent scenes from
the battles fought in Germany. The column is formed of 28 blocks of
white marble, is 137 feet high, and is crowned with a statue of S.
Paul. Sixtus V., in restoring the Column of Marcus Aurelius, in error
inscribed it to Antoninus Pius.
_Facing_ the Piazza Colonna is a large palace. The columns which form
the portico were found in the ruins of Veii. _Our attention is next
attracted by_