{"id":11128,"date":"2024-02-03T20:05:16","date_gmt":"2024-02-03T19:05:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.monumentsandsights.com\/?p=11128"},"modified":"2024-02-03T20:05:16","modified_gmt":"2024-02-03T19:05:16","slug":"what-is-arc-de-triomphe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.monumentsandsights.com\/what-is-arc-de-triomphe\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Arc De Triomphe"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Definition of Arc de Triomphe<\/h2>\n

Arc de Triomphe is a huge arch located in the western end of Champs-Élysées Avenue in Paris, France. Built between 1806 and 1836 to honor those who fought and died for France in the Napoleonic wars, it is the largest of its kind in the world. The monument stands 164 feet high, is 148 feet wide and 72 feet deep, and is a symbol of French military and imperial power. It has become one of the most iconic monuments in Paris, a grand statement of French strength and glory.<\/p>\n

History of Arc de Triomphe<\/h2>\n

The Arc de Triomphe was first proposed by Napoleon after his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. The arch was to be a tribute to his victories and to the French nation, thus symbolizing the greatness of France and its people. The initial design for the Arch was drafted by French architect Jean Chalgrin, who based his design on the famous Roman Arcs de Triomphe. Construction began in 1806, but the arch took 30 years to complete.<\/p>\n

Features of Arc de Triomphe<\/h2>\n

The Arc de Triomphe features several distinct features. On the top of the arch is a spectacular marble sculpture, depicting the winged Goddess Victory holding a laurel crown. Below that is a relief sculpture representing peace, which was added in 1836. The arch also features inscriptions honoring the French victories and names of over 600 generals. Underneath the arch, you can see the names of all 129 battles fought by the French, along with the names of the officers and soldiers who fought in them.<\/p>\n

Notable Events at Arc de Triomphe<\/h2>\n

Arc de Triomphe has seen many important events throughout its history. After Napoleon’s death, a funeral ceremony was held under the arch which was attended by more than 250,000 people. During World War I, Parisians gathered at the arch to mourn their fallen heroes. On the 75th anniversary of the end of WWI, a remembrance ceremony was held at the arch in 1994. After France won the 1998 World Cup, an overwhelming jubilant crowd gathered in front of the arch and it was eventually opened to the public as a celebration.<\/p>\n

Significance of Arc de Triomphe<\/h2>\n