One of the oldest monuments in the Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument is 62 metres (203 ft) tall, making it the largest obelisk in Europe. It was built to commemorate the victories of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington. Wellington, an Irishman, also known as the 'Iron Duke', was born in Dublin. Originally planned to be located in Merrion Square, it was built in the Phoenix Park after opposition from the square's residents.
