Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, and it is a symbol of French history and culture. Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the monument was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte and is the world’s largest triumphal arch. The Arc de Triomphe stands 50 metres tall, 45 metres wide and 22 metres deep, and is made of stone and marble.
History of the Arc de Triomphe
The idea for the Arc de Triomphe was originally conceived in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte, as a way to honour his victories. The monument was designed by Jean Chalgrin and construction began in 1806, but it was not completed until 1836, after the fall of Napoleon. The Arc de Triomphe stands at the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, which was named in honour of the French president Charles de Gaulle.
The Arc de Triomphe is also a memorial to the French soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, and to those who died in World War I and World War II. In 1920, an eternal flame was lit in honour of the Unknown Soldier. The flame is rekindled every evening, and is guarded by the French military.
Features of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is decorated with numerous sculptures, reliefs and inscriptions. On the top of the arch is a sculpture of the Goddess of Victory, and the monument is decorated with scenes of battles and figures of soldiers. The arch also features inscriptions of the names of victorious generals, and the names of 128 battles that Napoleon fought in.
At the base of the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was erected in 1921 to commemorate the unknown soldiers who died in World War I. The tomb is guarded by a military honour guard and is decorated with the flags of France, the United States and the United Kingdom.
Visiting the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is open to the public every day, from 10am to 11pm. Visitors can climb to the top of the arch for a panoramic view of Paris, or explore the interior of the arch, which includes a museum and a viewing platform.
Museum of the Arc de Triomphe
The museum of the Arc de Triomphe is located inside the arch and contains exhibits about the history of the monument and the battles that Napoleon fought in. Visitors can also learn about the history of the French Republic, and view a selection of paintings, sculptures and other artworks.
Viewing Platform
The viewing platform at the top of the Arc de Triomphe offers stunning views of the city of Paris. Visitors can also view the eternal flame and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Events at the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is the site of many important events in Paris. Every year on Bastille Day, the French president lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and on November 11th, a ceremony is held in honour of the Unknown Soldier. The arch is also the site of the annual Paris Marathon, which starts and ends at the Arc de Triomphe.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe is an iconic landmark in Paris and a symbol of French history and culture. The monument is decorated with sculptures, reliefs and inscriptions, and is the site of many important events. Visitors can explore the museum, view the eternal flame and climb to the top of the arch for a panoramic view of Paris.
0 Comments