AbstractThe purpose of the paper is to study the vibrational characteristics of the Flaminio Obelisk in Rome as part of general studies being performed for preservation purposes. The scope of the paper is limited to dynamic analysis using a finite element model and comparison of the results with those from the measured response to forced vibrations. The state of preservation of the monument is described as well as the sonic method used to evaluate the integrity of the sections. The results of the sonic tests are used to determine reductions in the cross‐sectional properties. A stick model including two rotational frequency independent soil springs at the basement level of the obelisk is developed. A good agreement between the numerical and the experimental results is obtained for the natural frequencies and for the modal shapes. A response spectrum and stress analysis according to the Italian Seismic Code is performed considering and evaluating the degraded characteristics of section