When you think of Paris, you’re likely to imagine the wide avenues and the Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile above them. The Arc de Triomphe is generally considered less artistic than its older cousin in Porte Saint-Denis. Nevertheless, it is now one of the most enduring and recognizable symbols of Paris, alongside the Eiffel Tower.
Set atop the hill of Chaillot, the Arc de Triomphe stands high in the center, with about a dozen busy Parisian avenues radiating outwards from it.
There are actually several ‘Arcs de Triomphe’ in Paris. The grand arch supported by a pair of thick towers has been a popular architectural feature since the time of Louis XIV in the late 17th century. But in Paris, the landmark Arc de Triomphe is the one located at the intersection of the Champs-Elysees and the Avenue de la Grande Armee.
The Arc is embellished with elaborate carvings and friezes worth some close inspection for their fine artistry. Coupled with its massive size and construction, it becomes an architectural marvel. The Arc rises 45 meters to its top, and it is 45 meters long and 22 meters wide. The vaulted passageway reaches 30 meters.
When you stand beneath this huge marvel, you will be overwhelmed by the massive stone. It is easy to imagine Napoleon’s armies marching through the passageway.
The famous French general is known to have had an edifice complex. The Arc at the Champs Elysees was in fact commissioned by Napoleon himself 1806. to commemorate his military victories. It was finally completed in 1836. Ironically, Napoleon never had the chance to celebrate any of his own triumphs at the Arc de Triomphe. Wellington defeated his army at Waterloo in 1815, and thus brought an end to his many years of military victories.
Thanks to Parisian zoning restrictions, there are no tall buildings blocking the Arc. As a result, the monument can be seen from several different sections of Paris - even at a distance. The structure can be seen not only from far away or under the arch, but underneath and inside as well. There’s a tunnel under the street from one side to the other and a spiral staircase in the interior.
At the base are four large relief sculptures set on four pillars. Engraved around the top are names of major victories in battle. Along the sides are the names of 558 generals. The names of those who died in action are underlined.
Since the end of WWI the Arc has held the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, commemorating the sacrifice of those killed between 1914 and 1918. The Flame of Remembrance burns constantly - a most touching part of the impressive monument.
When you visit this Paris landmark, it is worth it to get tickets for the museum located inside. Though this museum is small, it holds many significant French historical artifacts. Aside from entrance to the museum, admission will give you access to the top of the Arc.
From here, the view of Paris is breathtaking. You’ll see the Louvre, the Place de la Concorde and other well-known sights. The top of The Arc de Triomphe is definitely one great vantage point to see Paris the ‘City of Lights’.
The easiest way to get there is via the Metro (subway). Exit at the Charles de Gaulle Etoile station. Or simply stroll down the Champs-Elysees… you can’t miss it!
Related tours and destination in Paris:
Enjoy an exceptional evening in Paris! The night begins with a beautiful dinner cruise, discover the flavors of French cuisine whilst admiring the illuminations along the river Seine. Then experience the Lido and attend the glittering “Bonheur” Bluebell Girls Show!
Dine at Altitude 95 on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower to enjoy panoramic views of Paris followed by a romantic Seine river cruise. Finish the evening with a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge. Likely to Sell-out! Moulin Rouge regularly sells out weeks in advance. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
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