The Arc de Triomphe is a monument located in the heart of Paris, France. It stands at the end of the Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, but was not completed until 1836. It is a symbol of French national pride, and is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world.
The Arc de Triomphe is decorated with many sculptures and reliefs, each with its own story to tell. These sculptures were added in the 19th century, and are a testament to the history and culture of France. Here is a look at some of the most interesting sculptures found on the Arc de Triomphe.
The Four Horses of Marly
The Four Horses of Marly, also known as the Horses of Marly, is a sculpture located at the center of the Arc de Triomphe. The sculpture was created by the French sculptor Guillaume Coustou in 1745, and depicts four horses in full gallop. The sculpture was originally located in the gardens of the Château de Marly, but was moved to the Arc de Triomphe in 1824. It is a symbol of power and strength, and is one of the most recognizable sculptures on the monument.
The Winged Victory of Samothrace
The Winged Victory of Samothrace is a marble sculpture located at the base of the Arc de Triomphe. It was created in 190 BC, and was originally located on the island of Samothrace. The sculpture was moved to Paris in 1884, and was placed on the Arc de Triomphe in 1889. The sculpture is a symbol of victory and triumph, and is one of the most iconic sculptures on the monument.
The Departure of the Volunteers
The Departure of the Volunteers, also known as La Marseillaise, is a sculpture located at the top of the Arc de Triomphe. It was created by the French sculptor François Rude in 1836, and depicts a group of volunteers leaving for battle. The sculpture is a symbol of patriotism and courage, and is one of the most important sculptures on the monument.
Other Sculptures
The Arc de Triomphe is decorated with many other sculptures and reliefs. Some of the most notable include:
- The Lion of Belfort, a bronze sculpture created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in 1875.
- The Triumph of Napoleon, a sculpture created by Jean-Pierre Cortot in 1810.
- The Departure of the King, a sculpture created by Antoine Étex in 1835.
- The Column of Victory, a sculpture created by Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux in 1874.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, and is decorated with many sculptures and reliefs. These sculptures tell the story of France’s history and culture, and are a testament to the country’s national pride. From the Four Horses of Marly to the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the sculptures on the Arc de Triomphe are a must-see for any visitor to Paris.