Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is an excellent architectural monument, which is a solemn and majestic building. It is the very heart of the Champs-Elysees, and more than ten Parisian streets originate in its foundations.

The construction of such an unusual building began in 1806. The idea of erecting the Arc de Triomphe in Paris belongs to Napoleon, who decided to dedicate it to the Grand Army after its several successful military operations. The place where the Arc de Triomphe should be located was repeatedly disputed, but in the end, it was decided that it should be a kind of entrance to the well-known Champs-Elysees, near the Star Square. In 1836, the opening of this architectural monument took place.

The design of the Arc de Triomphe was entrusted to the famous architect Schallgren, who decided to create it, adhering to the laws of antiquity. The creator used arches, which were built by the ancient Romans, as a basis.

The Arc de Triomphe has a rather funny story, which is connected with the marriage of Napoleon with the Austrian chosen one. On his wedding day, he wanted to take a mandatory ride with his wife under the arch, but the building was very small at that time. The archaeologist immediately figured out how to get out of the situation, he built a model arch out of wood and decorated it. It was under such a Triumphal Arch that Napoleon and his young wife came to Paris.

The final work on the construction of the arch was completed by 1836, when the building towered by as much as 50 meters, and its width reached 45 meters.

In 1840, a mournful demonstration took place under the famous arch, accompanying the body of Napoleon on his last journey.

In 1921, an unknown soldier who was the first to leave the military ranks during the First World War was buried at the Arc de Triomphe. It was at his grave that, after a while, an eternal flame was erected.

There is a room inside the arch that serves as a museum. It preserves the history of the entire Arc de Triomphe, as well as the names of 558 brave generals. The arch is decorated with 128 bas-reliefs that carry the meaning of the revolutionary era.

Tourists, if desired, can climb to the very top of the Arc de Triomphe, which offers a wonderful view of immaculate Paris.