History of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris and arguably the most important in France. It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to commemorate his victorious troops and the French Revolution. Construction began in 1806 and wasn’t completed until 1836-30 years later. It stands at 50 metres tall, 45 metres wide and 22 metres deep. The Arc de Triomphe is located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It is guarded by two replica cannons and is decorated with sculpted reliefs depicting the major battles of the Napoleonic Wars.
Not only is the Arc de Triomphe a historical monument, it is also serves as a major tourist attraction and a place for tourists to visit and explore. Here you can learn about history, experience culture and view some of the most spectacular views in Paris. The monument also often plays host to state and military ceremonies and is seen as a symbol of French pride and patriotism.
What can you do at the Arc de Triomphe?
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the busiest and most iconic landmarks in Paris and it’s easy to see why. Firstly, most importantly, the monument offers visitors breathtaking views of Paris. Visitors can climb the 284 steps to the top or simply admire the monument from the ground. To get inside the Arc de Triomphe, visitors need to purchase tickets in advance. Inside, visitors can explore the gallery, which is lined with sculptures and reliefs that depict the major battles of the Napoleonic Wars.
The Arc de Triomphe also plays host to state and military ceremonies. These ceremonies include the Bastille Day military parade and the Flame of Liberty, which is a replica of the Statue of Liberty. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to witness a flyover of fighter jets, which is an amazing sight to behold.
Another popular attraction is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located under the Arc de Triomphe. This is an incredibly moving experience, one that all visitors should experience. Visitors are welcome to pay their respects by laying a wreath at the tomb.
Nighttime Activities
At night, the Arc de Triomphe is lit up and makes for an incredible photo opportunity. With the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop and the golden hues of the Arc de Triomphe in the foreground, visitors can capture some of the most picturesque pictures that Paris has to offer.
If you fancy yourself a spot of shopping, the surrounding area is full of good quality boutiques and souvenir stores. Here you can pick up homewares, clothes, books and other French souvenirs to take home and remember your trip by.
Eating and Drinking
If you’re looking for good food and drink, the Arc de Triomphe has plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Whether you’re looking for traditional French cuisine or something more contemporary, you’ll find something to suit your palate. And of course, no visit to France would be complete without a few glasses of its delicious wines.
If you’re after a spot of nightlife, the surrounding area is filled with bars, pubs and nightclubs for you to enjoy. Here you can grab a few drinks, listen to some live music and mingle with the locals.
Events in the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is also the venue for many events throughout the year. From cultural performances and classical concerts to more unconventional events such as light shows and laser displays, the Arc de Triomphe hosts some of the most unique events in Paris.
Every year, the monument also plays host to the finish line of the Tour de France. This is one of the most spectacular and exciting sports events in the world and is not one to be missed by any visitor to Paris.
Accessibility
The Arc de Triomphe is accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. The monument is equipped with lifts that enable wheelchair users and mobility impaired visitors to access the gallery, galleries and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It is also well-lit, with information points and customer services available to assist visitors.
The surrounding area of the Arc de Triomphe is also easily accessible for visitors with mobility issues. All museums, galleries and tourist attractions have been designed to make them wheelchair-friendly and there are regular buses to bring visitors to their destination.
Respect
The Arc de Triomphe is a very special place and it is important that visitors show respect for the monument and its surroundings by avoiding loud and disruptive behaviour. Taking food and drink into the monument is also not allowed and smoking is prohibited.
The Arc de Triomphe radiates a sense of history and of national pride and it is important that visitors remember this and show their respect. This is the perfect opportunity to learn about French culture and the significance of the monument.
Conclusion
The Arc de Triomphe is an iconic monument in Paris and it is easy to see why so many visitors flock to this national symbol every year. Not only does it offer visitors breathtaking views of the city, it is also an important site in French history and a great opportunity for visitors to learn about French culture. Additionally, visitors can also attend ceremonies, shop, eat and drink in the area, making the Arc de Triomphe one of the most popular attractions in Paris.
