Arc de Triomphe is a grand archway in the heart of Paris, France, that stands as a memorial to those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The arch was designed by Jean Chalgrin and constructed between 1806 and 1836. It stands 164 feet tall and 148 feet wide and is the largest triumphal arch in the world.
History of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 as a way to commemorate his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. Construction began in 1806 and was completed in 1836, after Napoleon’s fall from power. The monument was meant to be the centerpiece of a larger complex of buildings, including a palace, gardens, and a military academy, but those plans were never realized.
Architecture of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is built in the Neoclassical style and is composed of four columns and two arches, each adorned with sculptures of horses and chariots. The central arch is 50 feet tall and 45 feet wide and is flanked by two smaller arches. The monument is topped by a statue of the winged goddess of victory, Victoria, which was added in 1836.
Features of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is decorated with a number of bas-reliefs, or sculptures in low relief, depicting scenes from the Napoleonic Wars. The most famous of these is the relief of the Battle of Austerlitz, which is located on the arch’s north face. Other reliefs include the Battle of Aboukir, the Battle of Friedland, and the Battle of the Pyramids. The arch also features the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was added in 1920.
Famous Events at the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe has been the site of many famous events throughout its history. In 1919, it was the site of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I. In 1940, Nazi troops marched through the arch as they entered Paris. In 1944, General Charles de Gaulle led a victory march through the arch to celebrate the liberation of Paris. Today, the arch is the site of the annual Bastille Day military parade.
The Arc de Triomphe Today
Today, the Arc de Triomphe is a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most recognizable monuments in Paris. Visitors can climb the 284 steps to the top of the arch for a stunning view of the city. The arch is also home to a museum that houses artifacts from the Napoleonic Wars, as well as a souvenir shop. The monument is also the starting and ending point of the Champs-Élysées, the most famous avenue in Paris.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe is a grand archway in the heart of Paris that stands as a memorial to those who fought and died in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The monument is a popular tourist attraction and is home to a museum and souvenir shop. It is also the site of the annual Bastille Day military parade and the starting and ending point of the Champs-Élysées. The Arc de Triomphe is an important symbol of French history and culture.