The Column of the Pope, a white marble commemorative column, stands in Nice's Place du Palais. Erected in 1822, it honors two short visits by Pope Pius VII to the city – in 1809 and 1814. On his first visit in August 1809, the pope faced an enthusiastic crowd and houses illuminated in his honor. His 1814 visit drew a large contingent of priests and citizens escorting his carriage. The pope's warm response to the Nice welcome prompted him to send a portrait to the mayor as a token of thanks. The Column of the Pope, originally positioned on the Place de la Croix de Marbre, marks the site of the pope's triumphant welcome in 1814. The column features the Chiaramonti family coat of arms and Lorraine-style cross, with Latin inscriptions adorning its base.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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