Each time I lead a tour to the Arc de Triomphe, I feel a deep sense of stepping into a grand historical narrative. Situated at the top of the Champs-Élysées, this monumental arch isn’t just a gateway to one of the world’s most famous avenues; it’s a storied symbol of French national pride and history. Let me take you through some fascinating aspects of the Arc de Triomphe that I love to share with my tour groups.
The Origins of the Arc
The story of the Arc de Triomphe begins with Napoleon Bonaparte, who wanted a grand structure to celebrate the victory of his French army at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. Although he commissioned the arch, Napoleon never saw its completion—it was finished in 1836, long after his death. This massive structure stands 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, making it one of the largest triumphal arches in the world.
Architectural Marvel and Symbolism
Designed by Jean Chalgrin, the architecture of the Arc de Triomphe is heavily influenced by the Roman Arch of Titus, but on a much grander scale. The arch is adorned with intricate reliefs and sculptures that depict significant moments in French military history, including the Departure of the Volunteers in 1792, commonly known as La Marseillaise.
Each of the arch’s pillars has a group of sculptures that tell stories of French heroism and victories. The most famous of these is François Rude’s La Marseillaise, which captures the fierce spirit of the French Republic. I often pause here on my tours to let everyone take in the powerful imagery and the passionate detail carved into the stone.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, added in 1921, which houses the remains of an unidentified soldier from World War I. An eternal flame burns beside the tomb, rekindled every evening at 6:30 PM in a solemn ceremony. This spot has become a hallowed place of remembrance for all French soldiers who died unidentified in battle. It’s a poignant reminder of the cost of war, and visiting it often evokes deep reflection and respect among the tour groups.
Panoramic Views of Paris
One of the highlights of visiting the Arc de Triomphe is climbing the 284 steps to the top. The reward is a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris. From this vantage point, you can see the orderly arrangement of 12 grand avenues radiating out from the arch, resembling a star (étoile), which gives the surrounding area its name, Place de l’Étoile. The view stretches across the city, from the bustling Champs-Élysées to the distant hills of Sacré Coeur.
Celebrations and National Events
The Arc de Triomphe isn’t just a monument for tourists; it plays an active role in French national life. It’s the focal point of the Bastille Day military parade each July 14th and other national celebrations. In recent years, it was even wrapped in fabric in a tribute designed by the late artist Christo, turning it into a massive piece of public art that captivated both Parisians and visitors alike.
Fun Facts to Share
- Construction Challenges: The construction of the Arc was halted several times due to political changes and financial difficulties, taking nearly 30 years to complete.
- Napoleon’s Return: In a dramatic historical twist, Napoleon’s remains passed under the Arc during his reburial in 1840, even though he never saw the completed monument.
- Tour de France: Every year, the final stage of the Tour de France bicycle race finishes with multiple laps around the Arc, adding to its iconic status in sports.
Here are some more intriguing trivia and fun facts about the Arc de Triomphe that I love sharing with my tour groups:
The Arc de Triomphe is so large that an aviator once flew his biplane through it as part of a stunt in 1919, just after World War I ended. This daring feat was performed by Charles Godefroy and remains one of the most spectacular events associated with the monument.
The relief sculptures that adorn the Arc de Triomphe were subject to heated debates and competition among France’s most prominent artists. Each panel was meant to evoke the spirit and valor of the French military, and the selection process stirred as much passion as the historical events they depicted.
The Arc de Triomphe has made numerous appearances in films and continues to be a popular filming location. It’s been featured in international movies that highlight its symbolic and aesthetic value, helping to cement its status in global popular culture.
Beyond military parades and celebrations, the Arc has been a focal point for public expressions of protest and joy. From victory celebrations to massive demonstrations, it’s a place where the French people have come together in times of national significance.
The design of the Arc de Triomphe inspired similar structures around the world. Notable examples include the Arch of Triumph in Pyongyang, North Korea, and the Washington Square Arch in New York City, USA, each adapted to fit their local context and history.
Like many historic monuments, the Arc de Triomphe undergoes regular cleaning and restoration to preserve its detailed sculptures and stonework from pollution and weather damage. These efforts ensure that the arch remains a proud symbol of French heritage.
From the top of the Arc de Triomphe, you can see another famous arch, the smaller Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel near the Louvre. This alignment offers a fascinating perspective on how historical monuments are positioned in relation to each other in Paris.
Originally known as the Place de l’Étoile (Place of the Star), the large roundabout surrounding the Arc de Triomphe was renamed Place Charles de Gaulle in 1970, in honor of the former French president. However, many Parisians still refer to it by its original name.
The idea to use the Arc as a memorial site by adding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier came after World War I, reflecting a broader trend across Europe to commemorate the unidentified fallen soldiers of the Great War.
Each New Year’s Eve, the Arc de Triomphe becomes the centerpiece of spectacular light shows and celebrations, drawing thousands of locals and tourists alike to usher in the new year with grandeur right at the heart of Paris.
This trivia not only enriches the experience of visiting the Arc de Triomphe but also highlights its multi-layered significance in French history and culture.
Every quarter, as I introduce new visitors to the Arc de Triomphe, I find myself reinvigorated by its towering presence and the stories it holds. Whether you’re marveling at its imposing structure from the ground or looking out over Paris from its rooftop, the Arc de Triomphe offers a profound connection to the past and present of this vibrant city. Join me next time, and let’s uncover more together about this iconic symbol of French glory.
