The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris, France. It stands at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The arch was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, to commemorate the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, and was completed in 1836. It stands 50 meters tall, and is made of stone and marble. The arch is adorned with sculptures, reliefs, and inscriptions, depicting scenes from the Napoleonic Wars.
History of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was originally designed by Jean Chalgrin in 1806. The construction was overseen by Jean-Nicolas Huyot and completed in 1836. The monument was meant to commemorate the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, and is inscribed with the names of generals and battles fought by Napoleon’s Grande Armée. It was also intended to be a monument to the glory of the French Empire.
The arch was the largest triumphal arch in the world when it was completed. It stands 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide. It is made of stone and marble, and adorned with sculptures, reliefs, and inscriptions. The sculptures depict scenes from the Napoleonic Wars, such as the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of the Pyramids. The reliefs depict allegorical scenes of the triumph of the French Empire. The inscriptions commemorate the victories of Napoleon’s armies, as well as his coronation as Emperor of the French.
The Arc de Triomphe Today
Today, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris. It stands at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The arch is a popular tourist attraction, and is visited by millions of people each year. It is also the site of the annual Bastille Day parade. The arch is also the site of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors the soldiers who died in World War I.
Facts About the Arc de Triomphe
- Height: 50 meters
- Width: 45 meters
- Materials: Stone and marble
- Architect: Jean Chalgrin
- Year Completed: 1836
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located beneath the Arc de Triomphe. The tomb honors the soldiers who died in World War I, and is a symbol of the sacrifice of those who fought for their country. The tomb is guarded by a sentinel 24 hours a day, and is visited by millions of people each year.