Altare della Patria (The National Monument of Victor Emmanuel II) is a remarkably large building made of white marble. This monument was built in honor of Victor Emanuel II. Although it doesn’t include towers in its general design, the medieval structure still attracts attention from almost every part of Rome because its color stands out in an array of earth-colored buildings.

The focal point of the monument is the statue of a horseman. This was made as a representation of Victor Emanuel II. It was completed in 1889 and was inaugurated in1911.

It also has its famous detail, the Altare della Patria, or the Altar of the Fatherland, which is where the tomb of an unknown soldier is found. This soldier was killed in the 1st World War and became a symbol for all unknown fallen soldiers of Italy. So, the monument is not just to commemorate Victor Emmanuel II, but also all war casualties during the medieval world.

Inside the monument, there are some museums dedicated to the history of Italy, especially the Unification of Italy ("Risorgimento"): the Central Museum of the Risorgimento. This can be accessed by going up. If you continue to go up, you will find a terrace on top of the monument. Enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Rome here.