Why the
Arc de Triomphe
is special

The soaring, 19th century Arc de Triomphe is the world's most famous symbol of military victory.

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Arc de Triomphe
tips & insights

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Triumphal marches

Both French and invading armies have made triumphal marches through the arch.

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Napoleon

It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor his army. However, it wasn't finished until 1836, about 15 years after he passed away.

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Location

The Arc de Triomphe sits in the middle of a roundabout. Twelve avenues radiate outward from it, like the spokes of a wheel.

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Size

The Arc de Triomphe is truly colossal. It is as high as a modern 16-story building. Its passageway is so wide that a daring pilot in 1919 was able to fly through it.

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Unknown soldier

Directly under the arch is the tomb of France's unknown soldier.

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Notable facades

The monument's four pillar facades are adorned with four large sculptures (the most famous being the "La Marseillaise, the one on the right in the photo). The arch also bears the names 558 of Napoleon's generals as well as tributes to his major victories.

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View

The roof offers an excellent panoramic view of Paris. It's over 200 steps up (though there is an elevator for the physically challenged).

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