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Arc de Triomph The biggest triumphal arch in the world ARC DE TRIOMPHE At the western end of the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe is the biggest triumphal arch in the world and probably the most famous. The scene of triumphant military victories and miserable defeats, it's also born witness to some of the most important moments in the history of France and of the world. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his victories across Europe, it wasn't completed until 1936 under the reign of Louis-Phillippe. Four years later Napoleon's remains were brought to Paris and paraded under the Arc before arriving at their final resting place the Hotle des Invalides. Since then it has become the focal point of state funerals. In addition, the Arc houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honours France's many lost soldiers with an undying flame. Besides visiting the Tomb and admiring the majesty of the Arc itself, you should definitely take a ride in the lift up for a magnificent view of the city. Of the sculptures on the monument, the best known is Rude's Marseillaise, or The Departure of the Volunteers. J. P. Cortot's Triumph of Napoléon in 1810 and Etex's Resistance of 1814 and Peace of 1815 also adorn the facade. The monument is engraved with the names of hundreds of generals (those underlined died in battle) who commanded French troops in Napoleonic victories. |