Funerary Stele at the Quai Branly, Paris

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Stela originates from Latin roots, directly translated from Greek stele, meaning a pillar or vertical slab. In English usage, the terms stele and steles are commonly employed. Historically, stelae were predominantly erected as tombstones to commemorate the deceased and mark burial sites. They also functioned as boundary markers for fields, estates, administrative territories, and even nations. Beyond their funerary and votive purposes, individuals would set up stelae in temples and sanctuaries to honor deities or celebrate significant events such as successful mining expeditions or military victories over foreign powers.