Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a famous monument in Paris that honors those who fought for France, in particular, during the Napoleonic Wars and it also includes the tomb of an unknown soldier.
It is positioned at the western end of the Champs Elysees and stands in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly known as Place de l'Etoile.
The Arc de Triomphe was designed in 1806, by the architect Jean Chalgrin, and stands over 51 meters in height, and is exactly 45 meters wide. The monument is the second largest triumphal arch in existence, and its design was originally inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus.
It displays heroic French youths against bearded Germanic warriors in chain mail, which set the tone for public monuments with triumphant nationalistic messages, right up until World War I.
The Arc de Triomphe is so massive that after World War I had come to an end, and only three weeks after the Paris victory parade in 1919, Charles Godefroy flew his Nieuport biplane through it.
The Arc de Triomphe is a major landmark during the Tour de France, where the cyclists realize that they are nearing the finish of the race when it first comes into view.
The famous arch is open to the public where you can get an incredible view from the top of Champs Elysees, the Eiffel Tower and the Grande Arche in the business district of Paris.
