Learn About French History (With A View!) At The Arc De Triomphe

Examine the arch from ground level

Before entering the arch, spend a few minutes walking around the base. The arch, while simple in design, has lots of details inscribed on it. For example, the names of all of the French victories during the French Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars are inscribed, as well as all of the generals’ names who commanded during these wars.

There are also four main groups of sculptures displayed on the arch. Each displays a scene from either a military victory, or from the signing of an important treaty.

Pay homage to the unknown soldier

The idea for a memorial commemorating all of the soldiers who fell fighting for France under a single memorial was born during World War I. It was formalized after the armistice that ended the war in 1918. An eternal flame was lit in 1923 and has not been extinguished since. Each day at 6.30 PM, it is stroked by associations of military veterans. The tomb is surrounded by flowers and is a very solemn site that deserves a moment of pause and reflection.

Learn about the arch's history

After climbing 284 steps, visitors are granted a reprieve in the form of a small information center. Models of the arc are on display, informational panels detail the history of the arch’s construction, and interactive screens allow visitors to explore other arches throughout the world. Another interesting feature is a screen that shows a live bird’s eye view of visitors at the base of the monument, thanks to a camera mounted on the underside of the arch.

Admire the view from the terrace

The best part of visiting the Arc de Triomphe is certainly the unobstructed panoramic view. From this perspective, 49,5 meters (162 feet) off the ground, numerous Parisian landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Invalides and the Grand Palais museum can be observed from a new angle. Being up so high also gives visitors the opportunity to study Paris’ immense boulevards (most notably the Champs-Elysées) and gain more understanding of how the city is later out. This is especially helpful for those who are prone to getting lost! Telescopes are available to use for 3 EUR (3,25 USD) so as to better see all that this view affords.