{"id":11107,"date":"2023-12-15T18:20:16","date_gmt":"2023-12-15T17:20:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.monumentsandsights.com\/?p=11107"},"modified":"2023-12-15T18:20:16","modified_gmt":"2023-12-15T17:20:16","slug":"when-was-the-arc-de-triomphe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.monumentsandsights.com\/when-was-the-arc-de-triomphe\/","title":{"rendered":"When Was The Arc De Triomphe"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\nWhen it comes to monumental architectural structures, one of the first that comes to mind is the majestic Arc de Triomphe located at the end of the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris, France. Built to celebrate the grand victory of Napoléon’s army, this grand arch serves as a reminder of the nation’s great military victory and has stood the test of time for over two centuries. \n

Early Design and Construction<\/h2>\n

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. <\/p>\n

Symbolism behind the Monument<\/h2>\n

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. <\/p>\n

Notable Highlights<\/h2>\n

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. <\/p>\n

Interesting Facts<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Religious Significance<\/h2>\n