The Arc de Triomphe, standing proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, is a monumental triumphal arch commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to celebrate French military victories. Its construction took three decades, finally completed in 1836. Inspired by Roman arches, it bears the names of French victories and generals. Beneath its vault lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, with an eternal flame rekindled daily. You can climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris. The Arc is a powerful symbol of French national identity and history.
Paris FranceThe Arc de Triomphe is located at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly Place de l'Étoile) in Paris, France, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées avenue. This monumental arch stands on the right bank of the Seine in the 8th arrondissement, with its location shared by the 16th and 17th arrondissements as well. The site is a large circular plaza from which twelve grand avenues radiate, forming a star-like pattern, which is why the area is called "Étoile" (star). The Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I located beneath its vault. Visitors can access the monument via the Charles de Gaulle–Étoile metro and RER station, with pedestrian access through underground passages due to the heavy traffic on the roundabout. Nearby, the Arc de Triomphe is surrounded by a wealth of notable attractions and amenities. The Champs-Élysées, one of the most famous avenues in the world, stretches eastward from the arch and is lined with luxury shops, theaters, and cafes. The Golden Triangle, formed by the avenues Montaigne, George V, and the Champs-Élysées, hosts some of Paris’s most exclusive boutiques and high-end restaurants. Within a short walk, visitors can find cultural spots like the Balzac Cinema, which showcases independent films, and Monceau Park, a peaceful green space ideal for relaxation.