Audio GuideArc de Triomphe
Iconic triumphal arch built to commemorate Napoleon's victories, with an observation deck.
Museum
Paris, France
The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the very heart of Paris, offering visitors a captivating mix of history and artistry. Drawing inspiration from ancient Roman triumphal arches like the Arch of Titus, which were constructed to mark military triumphs with grand masonry pillars and intricate inscriptions, this monument was commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz to honour those who fought and perished during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Mirroring its ancient counterparts, the Arc de Triomphe blends neoclassical design with contemporary artistic flair. Among its renowned sculptures is the Departure of the Volunteers of seventeen ninety-two, vividly depicting the revolutionary call to arms. Beneath the monument lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, accompanied by an eternal flame, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the First World War.
Visitors can take a lift to the observation platform, from which a set of steps leads to breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. A permanent exhibition within the monument provides further insights into its historical and cultural importance. This iconic landmark is central to national celebrations, notably the Bastille Day parade, and continues to influence commemorative architecture around the globe.
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