Standing proudly at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe is a powerful symbol of French national pride. Commissioned by Napoleon after the victory at Austerlitz in 1805, this grand monument was completed in 1836 and remains a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture.
At 50 meters high and 45 meters wide, the Arc is engraved with the names of generals and battles fought during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Below it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with an eternal flame burning in memory of those lost in World War I. Visitors can access the top via a spiral staircase or elevator, where breathtaking views await: from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre.
This monument is not just a historical site — it's a cultural experience. Every evening at 6:30 PM, the flame at the tomb is rekindled in a solemn ceremony. For a deeper understanding, a small museum inside the Arc details its history through multimedia and artifacts.
Anecdote: Did you know that Charles Godefroy, a French pilot, flew his plane through the Arc in 1919 as a tribute to fallen comrades? The daring stunt was captured on film and remains legendary.
The Arc de Triomphe is easily accessible by metro, bus, or on foot, and sits at the junction of 12 avenues, forming the famous “Étoile” (star). It's a must-visit during any stay in Paris.
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