| Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France |
| studenthandouts.com > World Geography > Europe > Western Europe > France |
Triumphal Arch (Carrousel), Paris, France. The Arc de Triomphe is the largest triumphal arch in the world. Click here to enlarge.The Arc de Triomphe, one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, stands majestically at the western end of the Champs-Élysées in the Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly known as Place de l'Étoile. Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon I in 1806 after his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the monument was intended to honor the French army and celebrate the military achievements of the Napoleonic Wars. The design of the Arc de Triomphe was inspired by the ancient Roman Arch of Titus. It was designed by Jean Chalgrin, who envisioned a monumental arch standing 50 meters (164 feet) high and 45 meters (148 feet) wide, making it one of the largest triumphal arches in the world. The construction of the arch took several decades, with numerous interruptions caused by political changes and financial difficulties. It was finally completed in 1836 during the reign of King Louis-Philippe. The Arc de Triomphe is richly adorned with intricate sculptures and reliefs that depict various battles and significant events from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods. Among these is the famous Departure of the Volunteers of 1792, commonly known as La Marseillaise, sculpted by François Rude. The arch also features the names of 660 generals and the battles they fought, inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. Beneath the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, interred in 1920 to honor the unidentified soldiers who died in World War I. An eternal flame, lit in 1923, burns in memory of these fallen soldiers and has since become a symbol of national remembrance for all French military casualties. The flame is rekindled every evening in a solemn ceremony. The Arc de Triomphe has witnessed numerous historical events, including military parades, national celebrations, and the triumphant return of French troops after World War I and World War II. It has also been a site for significant political gatherings and demonstrations. Today, the Arc de Triomphe remains a powerful symbol of French patriotism and resilience. Visitors can ascend to the top of the monument to enjoy a panoramic view of Paris, which provides a unique perspective on the city’s layout, with twelve grand avenues radiating from the arch in a star-like pattern. The monument continues to inspire awe and serves as a poignant reminder of France's rich military history and enduring spirit. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|
| studenthandouts.com > World Geography > Europe > Western Europe > France |
