Probably the most iconic monument in all of Italy to employ pillars in its design is the one dedicated to the memory of unified Italy's first king, Victor Emmanuel II. Few monuments have been the focus of so much controversy as this one. Designed by Giuseppe Sacconi in 1885, the builders of the enormous structure destroyed several historic sites, including the home and workshop of Michelangelo, in order to give the monument center stage on the Capitoline Hill. The choice of white marble instead of the Roman travertine used in much of the surrounding architecture has caused the monument to stand out even more, detracting from nearby national treasures such as the Roman Forum. Locals have mocked it over the years with nicknames such as the "Wedding Cake" or the "Typewriter," but whether loved or hated, the edifice has earned its spot in local lore.
Not far from the "Wedding Cake" is a pillared monument that holds a place of honor in the hearts of the people, despite its shady past. The Arch of Constantine is one of the most visited sites in all of Rome. It was erected to celebrate the emperor's defeat of Maxentius in 312 A.D. When building the monument, though, its architect robbed other historic sites to give his creation the best look possible. Although some arches create the illusion of pillars in their facades, as is the case with the nearby Arch of Titus, the designer of Constantine's arch added detached columns to the facade of this ornate masterpiece.
Another ornate arch that employs detached pillars is the Arch of Peace in Milan. The arch was originally designed by Cagnola to celebrate Napoleon's entrance into the city, but was later reworked and renamed by order of Ferdinand I of Austria to commemorate the peace of 1815. In addition to the decorative columns surmounted by reclining figures, the arch is distinguished by the bronze statuary by Sangiorgio on top.
