Graphics showing a fragment of Trajan’s Column – the Emperor’s Monument. The artwork is by Fernando G. Baptista. [486×900]

**Originally, Trajan ordered an eagle to be placed at the top of the column. After his death, at the behest of Hadrian, the eagle was replaced with the statue Trajan. Only in 1587, a statue of St. Peter. What exactly happened to the statue of Trajan is unknown.**