Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is a triumphal arch located in the Place du Carrousel, in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. It was built between 1806 and 1808 to commemorate Napoleon’s military victories of the previous year. The arch is 21.34 metres high, 25.60 metres wide and 7.70 metres deep.
History
The arch was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 and was completed in 1808. It was designed by the architect Jean Chalgrin, who was a student of the great neoclassical architect, Charles Percier. It was constructed with white Carrara marble and was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus. The arch was the first of several arches to be built in Paris, including the Arc de Triomphe and the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile.
The arch was initially intended to be part of a grand military parade that was to be held in the Place du Carrousel. However, the parade never took place and the arch was eventually moved to its current location in 1814. It was moved to make way for the construction of the Louvre’s glass pyramid.
Design
The arch is decorated with reliefs depicting some of Napoleon’s military victories, including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of Marengo. The reliefs were designed by the sculptors Pierre-Nicolas Legrand and Louis-Pierre Deseine. The arch is topped by a bronze chariot driven by two winged horses and carrying a figure of Victory.
The arch is flanked by two wings, each of which is decorated with reliefs depicting figures from ancient mythology, including the Muses and the Graces. There are also two statues of Napoleon, one on each side of the arch.
Modern Day
Today, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris. It is often used as a backdrop for films and TV shows, as well as for various events such as concerts and fashion shows. The arch is also the site of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is dedicated to those who died in the First World War.
Interesting Facts
- The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is the smallest of the three triumphal arches in Paris.
- The arch is made of white Carrara marble and was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus.
- The reliefs on the arch depict some of Napoleon’s military victories, including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of Marengo.
- The arch is topped by a bronze chariot driven by two winged horses and carrying a figure of Victory.
- The arch is the site of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is dedicated to those who died in the First World War.