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France
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe, located in Paris, France, is one of the most famous monuments in the world, embodying a wealth of history, architectural grandeur, and cultural significance. It stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, one of the busiest roundabouts in Paris.
The monumental arch was commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon Bonaparte after his victory at Austerlitz, intending it to honor the French army's prowess. However, it was not completed until 1836, during the reign of Louis-Philippe, long after Napoleon's downfall and death. The Arc, standing at a towering height of 50 meters and width of 45 meters, is adorned with intricate reliefs and sculptures, symbolizing significant events in French history.
The exterior of the Arc de Triomphe is a marvel of Neoclassical architecture. The arch's façade features four main sculptural groups on each pillar: Le Départ de 1792 (also known as La Marseillaise), Le Triomphe de 1810, La Résistance de 1814, and La Paix de 1815, each representing a crucial moment in French history. The Arc's attic is engraved with the names of significant victories and generals of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars.
Inside the monument, a smaller but no less significant tribute to French soldiers is found. Beneath the vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, where the Flame of Remembrance is rekindled every evening in a solemn ceremony. The inner walls of the Arc also bear the names of 558 French generals; the names of those who died in battle are underlined.
A visit to the Arc de Triomphe is not complete without a trip to its terrace. Ascending its 284 steps provides a panoramic view of Paris, from the Louvre to the Grand Arche de la Défense. The Arc de Triomphe, with its rich history and stunning architecture, stands as a symbol of French national identity and an eternal testament to the soldiers who fought for France.