Pasquino

The most famous of Rome's six 'talking statues' — a battered ancient torso against the wall of Palazzo Braschi. Since the 16th century, Romans with political grievances have posted anonymous satirical verses on his base overnight. The statues 'spoke' when free expression was dangerous. The word 'pasquinade' (political satire) comes from this stone. The tradition continues today — a board on the base still displays current commentary.