What is the Arc De Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile is a monument located at the centre of Paris’ spoked-wheel circuit at the top of the Champs-Élysées. This iconic arch was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon in 1806 as a monument to honor the battles of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Designed in the neoclassical style, the arc is fifty meters wide, forty-five meters high, and twenty-two meters deep. It bears the inscription, “To the glory of the French people”, and is the largest stone arch in the world. Its grandiose design continues to set itself apart from other monuments, making it a perfect centerpiece for any Parisian vacation.
Is it Open to the Public?
The Arc de Triomphe is a tourist attraction, and it is open to the public from 10am to 11pm from April to September, and from 10am to 10:30pm from October to March. The arc is free for visitors, but there is a fee for those who wish to climb to the top. The rate for climbing up to the top of the arc is €12 for adults, €8.50 for teens ages 12-17, and €6.50 for children ages 7-11. There is also an elevator available for those who need assistance in getting up the steps to the observation deck.
Does the Arc de Triomphe Have a Museum?
The Arc de Triomphe does have its own museum, called the Museum of the Arc de Triomphe. This museum is located in the underground tunnel connecting the steps of the arc to the Champs-Élysées. It houses an impressive collection of memorabilia from the time of the arc’s construction, including a model of the arc and its carving tools, a representation of the Parisian spoked-wheel circuit, and a collection of artifacts from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The museum also has several interactive displays and historical documents, which further enhance the experience of learning at the arc.
What is the View Like From the Top?
The view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is truly breathtaking. One can witness the entirety of the Parisian skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and Clichy, as well as the magnificent Champs-Élysées. On clear days, one can even see as far as La Défense. According to experts, the most breathtaking experience of this view is the surrounding beauty of Paris that can be experienced from a single vantage point.
What Are Some Activities to Do at the Arc de Triomphe?
Aside from admiring the breathtaking view, the Arc de Triomphe is also home to a variety of activities. The first and perhaps the most popular activity is to walk around the arch and observe the intricate neoclassical designs and sculptures. The second activity one can do is to attend the annual Bastille Day Parade and fly over the arc. The third activity is to take photos of the monument both by day and by night and take home a beautiful piece of art.
What Are the Legends Surrounding the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe has a long and rich history, and therefore it has a lot of myths and legends that surround it. Notable legends include the story of the arch being built to honor the fallen soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars and the story of the “unknown soldier” buried beneath the monument. Other legends include the story of Napoleon’s horse Trooping the Color, the story of the two hours of prayer said every day for victory over the enemy, and the story of the lion statues guarding the entrance of the monument.
What is the History of the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to honor the battles of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Construction began in 1808 and it was finished in 1836. The arch was a symbol of French power and strength, but also a reminder of the struggles of the French people in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars. In 1940, when the French fell to the Nazis, the monument was the site of their surrender. After the war, the arc was restored and is now a symbol of French pride and power.
What are the Surrounding Attractions?
The Arc de Triomphe is surrounded by various attractions, such as the Champs-Élysées and its shopping district, Place de la Concorde, the Musee d’Orsay, the Louvre, the Musée du quai Branly, and the Musée de l’Armée. There is also an array of art galleries, historical monuments, and cultural institutions in the vicinity. Lastly, the arc itself is a popular tourist attraction, so there are always throngs of people visiting to admire the grand monument.
What Events Take Place at the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe plays host to numerous events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Bastille Day Parade, a commemoration of the French Revolution. Other events include a military-themed parade to commemorate the liberation of Paris in 1944 and a fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. Furthermore, the arch often serves as the finish line for the Tour de France, one of the world’s premier cycling events.
What Have Experts Said About the Arc de Triomphe?
Experts have praised the Arc de Triomphe for its beauty, grandeur, and importance in French history. For instance, historian Will Durant called it the “crown of all triumphal arches”, whilst urbanist Maxime Lagravière described it as a “monument of French memory”. Architectural critics have also praised the subtle curves of the arch and its intricate details, a testament to the engineering feat that it was to build it in the early 19th century. Thus, the Arc de Triomphe stands as one of the most beautiful and important monuments in Paris.
What Has Been the Cultural Impact?
The Arc de Triomphe has had a lasting impact on French culture, not only as an iconic monument but also as a cultural symbol. Its iconic stature is evoked in the arts, with its majestical grandeur often appearing in paintings, literature, and cinema. Its presence is also important during national holidays, with French soldiers marching underneath the arch to remember the fallen heroes of the Napoleonic Wars and show their national pride. As such, the Arc de Triomphe is an integral part of the French identity.
What Types of Transportation Can Be Used?
The Arc de Triomphe can be easily accessed via the Paris Metro Line No. 1. This is the most convenient form of transportation, as the monument itself is located directly next to the station. Additionally, it can be accessed by bus and taxi, as well as to a lesser extent by car. There are also walking tours available for those who wish to experience the monument up close.
What Can be Learned From Visiting the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe provides a great opportunity to learn about French history, culture and art. Visitors can explore the arch itself, as well as the museum that is housed in the underground tunnel. They can also learn about the engineering feat and the importance of neoclassicism in French art. Furthermore, the rich history of the monument, such as the various legends and myths that surround it, can be explored further. Visiting the arc is a great opportunity to learn more about French identity, as well as to experience the grandeur of one of the most iconic monuments in Paris.
