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The NH Concierge’s Tips
France is lucky to have some of the world's most amazing landmarks, and the Arc de Triomphe is without a question one of them. This monument is not only a sign of freedom, but also of French greatness, since it is where parties and honors for those who fought for France happen.
This article will talk about the history of the Arc de Triomphe so that you can learn about its secrets and its architectural magnificence.
Napoleon Bonaparte came up with the idea of building this monument, as a consequence of the need for national symbols that people could admire in the French Republic. It was inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, as an emblem of the victory of the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. Its construction began in 1806, and it was finished in 1836, but it wasn't the only arch that he ordered to be built at the time because in 1809 the Arc de Triomphe del Carrousel was built.
Once the Arc de Triomphe was completed, it took a new meaning because it became a place of commemoration. In fact, this transformation from a monument of victory to a memorial of sacrifice highlights the importance of this construction in French culture.
The history of the Arc de Triomphe indicates that its construction was a monumental challenge because it had too many political and financial problems. This made it go through many setbacks, and even redesigns because the arch was initially intended to be much larger. However, after evaluating the feasibility of the plan, designed by the architect Jean Chalgrin, and its alignment with the urban landscape, it was adjusted. So currently, the arch is 50 meters high and 45 meters wide, making it one of the largest triumphal arches in the world.
Moreover, various materials were used in the construction, including limestone, which gives its iconic appearance, carved by the best sculptors in the country. Featuring four main sculptures, the most important being The Marseillaise of 1792, six relief panels illustrating important battles, and a frieze below the top divided into two sections: The Departure of the Armies and The Return of the Armies. Also, on the inside of the pillars of the arch, names of battles won by the Napoleonic armies, and those of 558 generals who served for the country are engraved.
Inside the Paris Triumphal Arch you will find several tourist attractions, so be sure that you cannot miss this place on your trip to France.
From the history of the Arc de Triomphe, you must understand that it's a unique opportunity to experience Paris from a very different point of view, since after climbing the 284 steps to the top, you will be rewarded with one of the best panoramic views of the city, in addition to being able to closely appreciate the details of this work of art. This makes the ride one of the most exciting, since it is impossible not to soak up that feeling of achievement and improvement.
You can also admire the impressive views of the urban layout created by Georges-Eugène Haussmann, who received the title of baron from Emperor Napoleon III, for working on the ambitious renovation of the capital of France.
The Paris Triumphal Arch is one of the biggest monuments of French neoclassicism, in fact, it's an architectural treasure full of details that you have to admire on your trip. So, take note of these details so that you don't miss the opportunity to learn about the history of France.
● Sculptural Reliefs: There are impressive sculptures adorning the facades of the arch that tell the story of France's freedom. Those sculptures were work by artists such as Jean-Pierre Cortot and François Rude, who tried to capture epic moments, from the French Revolution to the Napoleonic Wars.
● The Inscriptions: Inside the arch, you will find inscriptions to the generals and most important battles of France. That is why you will find the list of the names of the fallen engraved on the stone, remembering the sacrifice of those who fought for the country. However, from the time of Napoleon until the mid-20th century, the best sculptors in France were sculpting their legacy on this monument. So in 1920, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was added to the base of the monument, in memory of those who died during the First World War, where a flame is lit daily in memory of all veterans.
● Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: It’s located in the heart of the arch and looks like the grave of an anonymous soldier, who represents all those soldiers who fell during the First World War. So it became a place of reflection, where visitors can pay tribute to the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom around the world. Especially because it has a flame that burns above the grave that it’s lit each night in a beautiful ceremony.
Your can always contemplate this monument, without any type of restriction, but if you want to visit its attractions you must do it at the time that we will indicate later. Also, remember that you have to buy a ticket that costs from €16, but there is free access for children under 18 years of age and over 65.
Hours of operation: The Arc de Triomphe is open daily, at 10:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM, but hours can vary depending on the season.
Accessibility options: There are facilities for visitors with reduced mobility, which ensure that everyone can experience this monument, like an elevator for those visitors who need it.
How to get there: The Arc de Triomphe is located in Place Charles de Gaulle near the best hotels in Paris. You can find it at the end of the Avenue des Champs-Elysées walking from the Place de la Concorde or the Tuileries Garden. However, we recommend taking the subway lines 1, 2, and 6 to the "Charles de Gaulle - Étoile" station, locating the direct exit to the Arc de Triomphe. Or use bus lines 22, 30, 31, 52, and 73 that pass near the monument.
Combine this tour with other attractions: The Arc de Triomphe is close to other emblematic places in the city, so you can take advantage of your day to visit nearby attractions such as the Champs-Elysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Respect the silence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: This is very important when visiting it, so remember to be respectful and maintain silence in this memorial place.
Bring water and snacks: There are many food options around the area, but it is highly recommended to bring water and some snacks to not have uncomfortable moments during the visit. Remember to stay hydrated, especially in summer, because the sun is very intense there.
Buy your tickets in advance: To avoid long lines, buy your tickets online in advance. This will allow you to access more quickly and make the most of your day.
The Arc de Triomphe is more than just a beautiful piece of architecture; it's also a sign of French strength and national pride. From its start as Napoleon's plan to its present day use as a memory and tourist spot, the history of the Arc de Triomphe represents a very important moment in the history of France and the spirit of the country. So, if you want to know what it's like to feel proud in the middle of Paris, make sure this stop is on your list of places to visit.
NH Collection Paris Ponthieu Champs-Élysées, formerly known as NH Paris Champs-Élysées Hotel, is located in the 8th arrondissement, a chic neighborhood where many of Paris’s shopping destinations and must-see cultural landmarks are located. Thanks to the hotel’s excellent location, you’ll find that the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, Place de la Concorde as well as the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the President of the French Republic, are all either within walking distance or within direct metro access.
NH Paris Gare de l’Est is located in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, on the right bank of the River Seine. It’s opposite Gare de l’Est train station and is only an eight-minute walk away from Gare du Nord. The hotel sits in a cosmopolitan and multicultural neighborhood, which is also home to two magnificent markets and is known for Canal Saint-Martin, which offers a great number of informal restaurants, hip bars and attractive shops.
NH Paris Opéra Faubourg is located on Rue La Fayette in the 9th arrondissement (Opéra) of Paris, between Montmartre and the antiquarian district of Drouot. As a result, it’s within walking distance of some of the main tourist attractions in the city. For example, both Opéra Garnier and Galeries Lafayette are only a 15-minute walk from the property. Meanwhile, Boulevard Haussmann, which is home to many high street fashion brands, is just 10 minutes away. Other points of interest, such as the Louvre and Tuileries Garden, Place Vendôme and Sacré-Cœur are within 30 minutes on foot.
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