it's a symbol of conquest. the ten plagues sent by god upon egypt made fun of their polytheistic religion, specifically mocking each of their gods. it's kind of fitting it was hoisted up. a monument to the past if you will. the vatican city is as much abuot art and architecture as it is about religion. what is more interesting is everywhere else in the world where such egyptian obelisks have been erected, whether legitimate egyptian artefacts or constructions.   park_obelisk
Australia