When people talk about Paris, you’re bound to think of it. Standing 50 meters tall, the Arc de Triomphe towers magnificently over the Place de l’Étoile. But do you really know this monument so dear to the city of Paris? Discover six things to know about the Arc de Triomphe.
1 – An elephant-shaped fountain was originally supposed to be built in place of the Arc de Triomphe
The elephant fountain envisioned by Emperor Napoleon
Yes, incredible but true! Before it became the monument we know today, Napoleon planned to erect… a massive fountain shaped like an elephant. It was meant to be a tribute to his Great Army, which made history. But fortunately, Jean-Baptiste Nompère de Champagny, his Minister of the Interior, convinced him to change his mind. Nevertheless, our elephant fountain did indeed exist and was built on Place de la Bastille in 1814. It was later destroyed and replaced by the July Column in 1846.
2 – The origin of the arch is “magical”
But why, exactly, do we build arches? Well, for their “magical” properties. According to the ancient Roman religion of war, leading an army through an arch (or a gate) purified them after a battle. These arches or gates were generally placed at the entrance to the city.
3 – 660 notable figures are engraved on the four pillars
Things to Know About the Arc de Triomphe
You’ve no doubt noticed the sculptures that adornthe Arc de Triomphe. But do you really know what they represent? Most are tributes to French military victories: the capture of Alexandria, the Battles of Jena, Wagram, and Marengo. You’ll also see 660 figures who left their mark on the First Empire and the First Republic. Most of them are generals!
4 – The flame of the Unknown Soldier has been burning since 1920
Photo by Ludovic MARIN/AFP // @canva
Located beneath the arch of the Arc de Triomphe since 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a tribute to all the soldiers who died for France. To ensure that their memory never fades, a flame burns at the foot of this tomb. It is relit every evening at 6:30 p.m. by associations of veterans or war victims. It is open to the public free of charge every day of the year!
5 – You can visit for free (subject to certain conditions)
@Arcdetriomphe
This magnificent monument offers an absolutely breathtaking view of all of Paris. But did you know you can visit it for free? This applies to young people under 18, European youth aged 18–25,people with disabilities and their companions, and job seekers.
Good to know: Admission is free for everyone on the first Sunday of January, February, March, November, and December! Be sure to mark these dates on your calendars. On other days of the year, remember to book your tickets for the Arc de Triomphe in advance to avoid the lines.
6 – If the Arc de Triomphe were to be built today, it would cost more than 4 billion euros
@P. Cadet
The monument, designed by architect Jean-François Thérèse Chalgrin and commissioned by Napoleon, took 30 years to complete! Although the emperor did not live to see his project completed, we know that it was extremely expensive for its time! 9,651, 116 francs—a hefty sum that, if converted to euros, would exceed one billion.