Who designed the Arc de Triomphe?
The iconic Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most recognised monuments. Since 1836 it has been an instantly recognisable feature in the French capital’s skyline, and its inception may surprise some visitors. The designer wasn’t a French architect, but a multi-talented German from Sachsen called Johann von Hildebrandt.
Hildebrandt came from a family of architects and sculptors, and had trained in Rome. He moved to Paris in 1704, where he developed an active career in the building industry, gaining the attention of France’s then regent, Philippe d’Orléans. In 1735, he was appointed to oversee the construction of a triumphal arch, which today is us, the Arc de Triomphe. It took him over a year to complete the project, which was a result of many planning problems due to its monumental size and original scope.
Its design would become an inspiration to many other projects to this day, particularly those of a public order. The structure itself is an effective example of the Baroque style of Hildebrandt, displaying proportion and symmetry with an overt verticality. The arch makes skillful use of a variety of materials, ranging from natural Duchateau stones to metal decorations, wood, glass and mirrors.
The original motivation behind the construction of the Arc de Triomphe was the ‘Fete de I’lIon’, a celebration of a military victory. But Hildebrandt’s design took it beyond that, lavishing the piece with extraordinary neoclassical ornamentation. The star-studded sky and spread eagle on the arch’s western face must have looked incredibly impressive to Louis XVI and Napoleon alike.
Hildebrandt had a successful collaboration with France, taking up the post of permanent architect to the French court. He was also involved in the planning of the Place de la Concorde and the project of the Luxembourg Palace, both in Paris.
In its current state, the Arc de Triomphe stands as a witness to over two centuries of French history. It has become a true symbol of victory and a popular attraction for both local and international visitors. The fact that it was originally designed by a German master who never lived in the city is quite extraordinary. It tells of the amazing contributions that foreign artists have made throughout the centuries in Paris.
The Controversy
Due to its elevated status, the Arc de Triomphe has become a platform for controversy, arguments and commentary on the changing events of France and the world. Most notably, much debate has been had regarding the addition of protective steel railings around the arch following terrorist attacks in Paris. Some argue that the railings diminish the monument’s aesthetics, whilst others believe it is a necessary measure for the maintenance and protection of the site. The railings have since been removed and replaced with a low platform.
More recently, we have seen images of luminous replica Arc de Triomphe structures – such as the 78 metre long example in Moscow – raising questions over who has the right to use the arch as part of various nationwide celebrations and/or protests. Therefore, whilst the impressively scaled triumphal arch was once a symbol of military victory and imperial strength, its contemporary interpretation can now be seen as a powerful expression of human potential for unifying and collaborative action.
Inspired Designs from Johann von Hildebrandt
Johann von Hildebrandt’s work goes much further beyond the Arc de Triomphe. During his stay in Paris, the German architect designed numerous other projects, becoming one of the most influential figures in the city at the time. These landmarks include the Luxembourg Palace, the Place Vendome’s eastern wing, the Eglise de la Madeleine, and Saint Sulpice.
However, Hildebrandt’s work was not confined to the Capital. Other cities were also privileged to witness his artistry, such as Strasbourg and Nancy. His plans for the Place Stanislas, in particular, are considered by many to be one of his most impressive works. The square was executed in a neoclassical, symmetrical style but with a touch of rococo and it has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2020.
To this day, Hildebrandt’s distinctive touch continues to be present in many of Paris’ impressive sights, reminding every visitor of the German master’s crucial contribution to Parisian architecture.
Modern Makeover
In the last few years, the Arc de Triomphe has gone through an extensive renovation process in order to enhance the monument and its surroundings. New additions such as a performance venue with 550 seats, a viewing platform and two subterranean levels of visitor facilities were introduced. The latter consist of a series of galleries, a bookshop, an audiovisual room, a restaurant and a bar.
All these transformations were carefully executed to preserve the historic character of the monument. New lights were installed along its perimeters so that the arch can be illuminated in an everchanging sequence of colours. On the arch’s interior, the tombs of several renowned French military leaders, including that of Napoleon, can be visited.
At the same time, a new lighting technique was implemented to enhance the overall beauty of the monument, from along the Champs Elysees and the surrounding area. Every night the arch is now illuminated with a constant white light, creating a minimal yet impactful look.
Legacy of Johann von Hildebrandt
The legacy of Johann von Hildebrandt lives on in the Arc de Triomphe. A fourteenth-century Roman triumphal arch inspired its design and grandeur. This monument stands today as a testment to its creator’s skill and genius, a binding link between the past, present and future. Its iconic aperture and twenty-eight sculpted figures honour the achievements of French military campaigns and its fifty-meter height has been a beacon for nationalists through the ages.
Over the years, the Arch has become a symbol of French patriotism and according to some recent polls, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It is interesting to note, however, that its original designer did not live to see it finished and completed. Johann von Hildebrandt died in 1745, two years before its first stones were laid.
Implications of Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe has transcended its original purpose and political intentions, to become a cherished monument of French identity and culture. The grace and magnificence of the arch draws respect and admiration, and like the Statue of Liberty, it serves as an enduring reminder of personal liberty, democracy and freedom of speech. At the same time, the presence of the Arc de Triomphe is seen as a way of actively keeping the memory of the wars and military conflucts in which France has been involved over the centuries alive.
Apart from its impressive symbolic value and tourist appeal, the Arc de Triomphe is also a rich and unique historical document. Its detailed inscriptions and sculpted figures tell the stories of many generations and their heroic accomplishments. Every day, it is visited by a variety of people, from dignitaries and families, to art students and lonely tourists.
The Impact of Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe has had a worldwide influence within the fields of urban planning, landscape architecture and symbolism. Aside from being an architectural marvel, it has inspired a series of replicas in other countries, particularly in former French colonies. Some of these monuments stand in Morocco, Senegal and Venezuela, to name a few.
The Arc de Triomphe has become an integral part of the EU flag and it features prominently in Paris-related brands and promotional material, such as postcards, logos, and photographs. It has also been used in advertisements and even in television shows, to promote both European and French-made products and productions.
The presence of the Arch serves France’s national image, in an international and interconnected world, through its embodiment of timeless values and the commitment to peace. This and other remarkable monuments of Paris are invaluable links in the humanity’s collective journey of achievements, legacy and shared memory.
