Paris Weekend Break

The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe (arch of triumph) is situated at the western end of the famous Champs Elysees and is a monument to the French soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic wars.

It was built at the instruction of Emperor Napoleon in 1806, although final completion did not take place until the mid eighteen thirties. Its designer was called Jean Chalgrin and he took his inspiration from a much earlier Roman arch.

The Arc de Triomphe is 165 feet tall and about 145 feet wide. Cars drive through it and a small plane has even been flown through the structure.

All visitors to this arch agree that its true size and scale can only be appreciated by witnessing the arch first hand and at close proximity.

The Arc de Triomphe is grand and monumental in appearance with massive ornate masonic carvings and engravings and it has an arched "through way" on both of its axis.

Numerous sculptures represent a collection of famous "thinkers" as well as symbols of "peace and resistance" and of course French soldiers.

The arch has an upper attic in which there are thirty engraved shields.

Tourist information

The Arc de Triomphe museum is open every day bar public holidays with opening times varying upon the time of year. Entry to the museum is approximately 6 to 7 euros.

The arch has a lift and 284 steps which reach the summit of the monument. The arch is located on a "monumental route", the L'Axe historique, that takes in most of the Paris landmarks between the Louvre and the edge of the city.

At night the arch is illuminated and gives off a yellow glow.

The closest Metro station is Charles de Gaulle.