The answer, surprisingly, is no one knows for sure. The Arc de Triomphe is composed of two flights of stairs leading to the top. The wider stairway has 164 steps, while the narrower flight of stairs is rumored to have anywhere from 129 to 147 steps. But it’s impossible to know for sure, as there isn’t an exact number of steps.
Construction of The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe was first commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806. He was inspired by the elegant structure of the Roman triumphal arch of Titus, and wanted to create a monument to pay tribute to his soldiers. The monument was completed in 1836 and is composed of a mix of different styles, ranging from the Neo-classical to the Neoclassical-romantic.
The architects that designed the monument needed to figure out how many steps were needed to ensure people could reach the summit of the structure. To do so, they used a couple of mathematical formulas to calculate the number of steps needed. The task was surprisingly complex, taking into account the curvature of the stairs, the incline and the difference in height between the bottom and the summit.
Building the staircase
Once the number of steps was calculated, the staircase was built. It took 11 years for the flights of stairs to be constructed, a process that required a great deal of skill and dedication. The materials used for the construction are mostly limestone, but there are also traces of granite and bronze, which were chosen for their durability and resistance.
Though the exact number of steps is unknown, a quick look at the structure reveals that the wider staircase has 123 steps, while the narrower flight of stairs has a suspected number of between 129 and 147 steps, depending on the source.
The significance of the steps
The exact number of steps isn’t the only thing that makes the flights of stairs at the Arc de Triomphe a talking point among visitors. As people ascend the stairs, they’re able to admire the impressive stonework, beautiful carvings and detailed sculptures. The steps are, in a way, a way to appreciate the beauty and grandiosity of the structure in all its glory.
The stairs also symbolize the courage and resilience of the French people, as the monument is a commemoration of those who fell during the war. The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of strength and hope, and the flights of stairs are a true testament to the bravery of a nation.
The view from the top
As if all of this wasn’t enough, those who reach the top of the stairs are rewarded with an amazing view of the city. The view spans dozens of kilometres and includes some of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. From the Sacre Coeur to the Louvre, and from the Eiffel Tower to the Notre Dame de Paris, the view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is truly breathtaking.
While it’s possible to take the stairs, some visitors opt for taking the elevator instead. Unfortunately, the elevator does not have access to the terrace, so anyone wanting to admire the view from the top of Arc de Triomphe will have to climb the flights of stairs.
However, the climb is worth it, as the top of the structure offers some truly breathtaking views of Paris. As people ascend the steps, they’re surrounded by beautiful carvings and sculptures, as well as the powerful symbolism of this iconic monument.
The Eternal Flame
At the very foot of the stairs is the Eternal Flame, which is lit to honour those who lost their lives in the First World War. Since 1923, a young veteran of the war lights the flame each day in a powerful moment of solidarity and remembrance. As such, the stairs at the Arc de Triomphe are a tribute to the memory of those who gave their lives for their country.
Preserving the monuments legacy
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmark’s in Paris, and its beauty and grandiosity is only accentuated by its flights of stairs. It’s impossible to know exactly how many steps it has, but that doesn’t make the number any less important.
The flights of stairs pay tribute to the courage and resilience of the French people, and serve as a reminder of the sacrifice of those who lost their lives in battle. They’re a reminder of the power of a nation and a testament to the importance of preserving these monuments’ grand legacies.
