Arc de Triomphe (Paris)
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in the city of Paris and the world. It is located in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, at the end of the Champs-Élysées, and serves as a symbol of France’s national pride.
The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz. Its construction lasted over 30 years and was completed in 1836 during the reign of King Louis-Philippe. The arch was created as a symbol of France’s military glory and its heroes.
The design of the arch was developed by architect Jean-François Chalgrin, who was inspired by Roman triumphal arches. The monument stands 50 meters high, 45 meters wide, and 22 meters deep. Its facades are adorned with bas-reliefs depicting scenes of Napoleon’s military victories. Inside the arch, there is a museum dedicated to its history.
The names of 128 battles won by the Republican and Imperial armies, as well as the names of 658 French military leaders, are engraved on the walls of the arch.
Beneath the arch burns the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which was lit in 1923.
Every year, on July 14th, a military parade takes place near the arch in honor of Bastille Day.
The arch is open to tourists daily, and from its observation deck, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Paris. The best time to visit is in the evening when the city is illuminated by thousands of lights.
P.S. Image attribution: AI generated