Early Design and Construction
In 1806, Napoléon I decreed that a grand monument would be constructed in honour of his army’s glorious victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. French architect Jean Chalgrin was appointed to come up with a design for the arch. The 50- metre high, 45-metre wide triumphal arch was designed in the Neoclassical style, a popular architectural style of 1790-1830. Construction began in the same year and it took more than thirty years to finish the monumental project – the arch was finally completed in 1836 by architect Jean-Nicolas Huyot.
Symbolism behind the Monument
The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of power and strength, a representation of the glory of Napoléon and his army. The four faces inscribed in the arch represent four values – ‘crowning of glory’, ‘resurrection of honour’, ‘regeneration of France’ and ‘peace and glory’ – which perfectly embodies the message of Napoleonic rule. The monument is adorned with numerous sculptures, eagles, lions and vibrant decoration, symbolizing the victorious power of France.
Notable Highlights
The arch houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – a memorial to celebrate the heroic efforts of soldiers and commemorate those who have died in World War I. Every November, the planned event of ‘Avenue des Champs-Élysées illuminated with the Flame of Liberty’ takes place under the Arc de Triomphe. Here, the Flame of Liberty is lit and carried in parade from the base of the arch to the centre of Paris. The panoramic view of Paris from the top of the Arc de Triomphe is undoubtedly breathtaking and offers a great way to enjoy the majestic view of Paris.
Interesting Facts
The iconic arch was captured by Germany in the 1940 during the World War and remained in German hands until 1945. It was the first landmark in Paris to be restored after the war and was the highest structure in Paris until the completion of the Eiffel Tower. It is said that in 1814, when the French were retreating, a group of young heroes fought to the death in order to ensure the safe transfer of the French regimental flags, which are now on display at the top of the arch. This heroic action was captured in ‘The Arc de Triomphe, scene of the sortie from Paris’, a painting by Baron Charles Théodore Frédéric Gillot.
Religious Significance
The religious significance of the monument lies in its inclusion of the Cross of Lorraine, a symbol of the Free French forces and a representation of a sacred instrument in Christianity. The Triomphe de l’Eglise refers to a spiritual victory of the French over the Austrians and Russians, the two major Christian states of the Napoleonic era. Additionally, the night before the battle of Austerlitz, Napoleon asked the Pope to offer a special prayer to the religious authorities. This event was commemorated in the form of a plaque, installed at the base of the arch in 1835, with the text “Orate pro victoribus” (“pray for the victors”).
Celebration and Remembrance
Each year, the anniversary of the battle of Austerlitz is remembered at the Arc de Triomphe. On that day, the French Army performs a special dawn ceremony and places wreaths on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Besides this, during Bastille day, the Arch is decorated with flags and the annual military parade passes under the arch.
Impact on Modern Architecture
The Arc de Triomphe served as an inspiration to many other monuments around the world, such as the Monumento a la Revolución in Mexico and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin. It has been an icon of French identity and architecture, representing the nation’s pride and bravery in the face of adversity.
Restoration and Maintenance
In 1989, the National Monuments Centre conceived a restoration project of the Arc de Triomphe. The project was a success and it was opened to the public after the completion of the project in 1993. The arch is maintained routinely and it has become a major tourist attraction in Paris.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Arc de Triomphe stands tall in Paris over 200 years after its completion, representing French pride and history. It has had a great influence on modern architecture and continues to serve as an inspiration for many monumental structures around the world.
