History of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
History of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
The Arc de Triomphe in the heart of Paris is an architectural marvel and represents the zenith of French artistic achievement. Constructed to pay homage to the heroes of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, this monumental arch adorns the western end of the Champs-Élysées, offering stunning panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop.
Immerse yourself in the enthralling history of the Arc de Triomphe with our concise timeline and comprehensive overview. Elevate your visit with our meticulously chosen selection of premier tickets, guaranteeing a seamless exploration of this iconic landmark.
Historical Timeline of Arc de Triomphe
1806
Napoleon I commissions the Arc de Triomphe to commemorate the victories of the French armies during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
1807
Jean Chalgrin is appointed as the architect of the Arc de Triomphe.
1808
The first stone of the Arc de Triomphe is laid by Napoleon I on August 15, 1806, his birthday.
1811
Jean Chalgrin dies, and Jean-Arnaud Raymond takes over as the architect.
1834
Construction of the Arc de Triomphe is halted due to lack of funds.
1836
Louis-Philippe I, King of the French, resumes construction of the Arc de Triomphe.
1836
The Arc de Triomphe is finally inaugurated on July 29, 1836. The names of over 600 French generals who died in battle are inscribed on the arch’s walls. Relief sculptures that adorn the arch depict scenes of French military victories and historical events.
1919
Charles Godefroy flies a plane through the Arc de Triomphe to commemorate the Allied victory in World War I.
1920
The “Eternal Flame of Remembrance” is lit under the Arc de Triomphe in memory of the soldiers who died in World War I.
1940
During the German invasion of France, the Arc de Triomphe is damaged by German tanks. The damage is later repaired.
1944
On August 25, 1944, Allied forces liberate Paris from German occupation. American General George S. Patton drives his jeep through the Arc de Triomphe to mark the victory.
1961
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is placed under the Arc de Triomphe to honor the French soldiers who died in World War I and subsequent wars.
2018
The Arc de Triomphe undergoes a major renovation project to restore the monument to its original condition.
2020
The renovated Arc de Triomphe is reopened to the public on July 28, 2020.
Today
The Arc de Triomphe remains one of the most iconic landmarks of Paris, and it is a popular tourist destination. It is also a frequent site of national celebrations and military parades.
History of the Arc de Triomphe: In-Depth Summary
Explore the rich history of the Arc de Triomphe through our thoughtfully crafted overview. Dive into each intricately presented segment, taking a chronological journey to uncover the origins, transformations, and profound cultural significance of this iconic structure.
Here’s a periodic overview of the history of the Arc de Triomphe.
Architecture of the Arc de Triomphe
Designed by Jean Chalgrin in the Neoclassical style, characterized by emphasis on symmetry, grandeur, and the use of classical elements, the arch’s imposing structure measures an impressive 50 meters(164 feet) in height, 45 meters (148 feet) in length, 22 meters (72 feet) in width, and 600,000 tons in weight.
284 steps lead up to the top of the monument that provides panoramic views over Paris. However, the architectural grandeur extends beyond its sheer size.
Its Corinthian columns, ornate pediments, and sculptures create a visually stunning ensemble. The four monumental sculpted panels, executed by renowned French artists such as François Rude, Jean-Pierre Cortot, and Antoine Etex, depict scenes from the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars.
These are the mobilization of French citizens during the War of the First Coalition, Napoleon’s triumphs following his coronation, the French resistance against the Allied invasion of 1814, and the restoration of peace following the Napoleonic Wars. In addition, the names of over 600 French generals who died in battle are inscribed on the walls of the arch.
Arc de Triomphe Paris Tickets
Discover our curated selection of Arc de Triomphe tickets.
Paris: Arc de Triomphe Rooftop Tickets
21.652 Reviews
From €16
GetYourGuide
“Easily accessed the arc de triomphe through the underground stairway…”
Combo (Save 15%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Seine River Cruise Tickets
17.869 Reviews
From €29.70
Headout
“The ticketing process was very easy, understandable and simple, and the night sailing on the Seine river was mesmerizing. I recommend it…”
Combo (Save 5%): Arc de Triomphe Rooftop + Pantheon Tickets
11.136 Reviews
From €27.55
Headout
“Very fast and expeditious entrance with the bar code, we entered without major problem…”
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