The Arc de Triomphe

Paris is impossible to imagine without its magnificent architectural landmarks. Alongside the the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe on Place Charles de Gaulle remains the principal symbol of French national pride, military history and the capital’s grandeur.

The history of its creation: from Napoleon’s vision to its completion

The idea of erecting the monument belonged to Napoleon Bonaparte. Following his brilliant victory at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805, the Emperor promised his soldiers that they would return home “through triumphal arches”.

Construction began in 1806, but was delayed for many decades due to political upheavals, Napoleon’s defeats and changes of government in France. The monument was not completed until 1836, during the reign of King Louis-Philippe I. By that time, Bonaparte himself had long since died in exile; however, in 1840, his remains were carried in a procession beneath the arches of the monument, paying tribute to the great commander.

Architectural grandeur and details

The ancient Roman Arch of Titus served as the model for the Parisian structure, although French architects significantly increased its scale. The monument is approximately 50 metres high and nearly 45 metres wide, making it one of the largest triumphal arches in the world.

The monument is adorned with large-scale bas-reliefs and sculptural groups. The most famous of these is “La Marseillaise” (the volunteers’ march in 1792) by the sculptor François Rude, situated on the façade facing the Champs-Élysées. The names of hundreds of battles and those of distinguished French military commanders are carved into the inner and outer walls of the arch.

Memorial site: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

After the First World War, the monument took on even greater significance. In 1921, the Unknown Soldier, who had fallen in bloody battles, was laid to rest beneath the arches. Soon afterwards, the Eternal Flame was lit here in memory of all fallen soldiers. This tradition continues to this day: every evening at 6.30 pm, a solemn ceremony is held to keep the flame alight.

Viewing platform and view of Paris

The Arc de Triomphe is situated at the centre of the so-called “Star” (Place Charles de Gaulle), from which 12 wide avenues radiate outwards. At the top of the monument is a viewing platform offering one of the best panoramic views of Paris: the direct extension of the Champs-Élysées, the La Défense business district and the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower.

In the photographs taken from this vantage point, the strict geometry of Paris’s streets is clearly visible, whilst the evening images showing streams of glowing headlights around the square create a stunning visual effect.