Located in the VIII district of the French capital, the Arc de Triomphe is characterized by being an imposing building of about 50 meters that dates back to 1806. It is the main identity monument in France and is managed by the National Monuments Center.
Visiting the Arc de Triomphe will allow you to have a new vision of French history and culture ; a town that has managed to maintain over time a respect for its past, which could be exemplary.
Brief history of the Arc de Triomphe
Although the project was made public when Napoleon Bonaparte declared his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the idea was already in his head; such is the case that, according to the story, before marching to that contest, the ruler promised his soldiers “You will return home under triumphal arches” . When victory was imminent, Bonaparte ordered work to begin.
Bonaparte’s goal was for the whole world to know the strength of France and the Napoleonic victories , a way of self-honoring his prowess at the head of the French army. Visiting this monument will allow you to understand to what extent the military’s ego was great.
The construction of the Arc de Triomphe took around thirty years. Its design was conceived by Jean Chalgrin and Jean-Arnaud Raymond, who took as their point of reference the wonderful Arch of Titus located in Rome.
Throughout history, this monument has witnessed numerous events for the French people. On December 15, 1840, for example, he was the protagonist when Napoleon’s remains were guided through the city to the cemetery . Later, the end of the two world wars was celebrated with military parades passing through this arch. This occurred in 1919 and 1944, respectively.
What to see at the arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe will appear before you as a towering monument full of symbolism. We invite you, however, not to stay with just that. Enjoy everything you see, which is no small thing.
Among the most impressive things to see next to the Arc de Triomphe is the eternal flame next to a small monument called the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier . It was erected to commemorate the thousands of French soldiers who gave their lives during the First World War and whose identities have not been found.
Another detail that you should not miss are the engravings on the four pillars that support the monument . Each of them bears the names of the battles that Napoleon Bonaparte and his armies won. The names of the French generals who fought alongside Napoléon are also read, some of whom died in combat.
But there is more. Climb the stairs to the belvedere , from where you will have a perfect view of Paris: the Champs Elysées, the wide avenues and the Tuileries Gardens. It is an unmissable opportunity to fully discover the beautiful Paris!
Location
The Arc de Triomphe is located in Place Charles de Gaulle .
Hours and price
If you want to visit the Arch of Paris, you can do it every day at the following times : from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. (from April to September) and from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (from October to March).
The price of admission, if you want to enter and climb to the top, is €12 (adults), €5 (students) and free for those under 18 years of age.