Arc de Triomphe

At the end of the Champs-Élysées is another famous monument in Paris, the majestic Arc de Triomphe. It is a very tall archway, inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, Italy… but the one in Paris is three times bigger. It’s 164 feet (50m) high.

Arches of celebration or triumph may be found in major cities across Europe and the world. Often built to celebrate or honor the city or country it is in and often to celebrate battles won, and those who fought in those battles. In fact, when French fighters return from battles, they often march in parade under the arch.

The Arc de Triomphe was built in the 1800s to honor those who fought for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. In the center of the arch is the eternal flame (an always burning fire) of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier lit every night at 6:30 pm.

It is located at the end of the Champs-Élysées and is the center point where 12 different avenues come together. It is the world’s largest traffic circle.

You can take the 284 stairs or the elevator to the top for a great view down the Champs-Élysées. There’s also a small museum inside the Arc where they tell the story of its building.

Check out their website for more details to plan your visit.