What Are the Two Arches in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the city of love and lights, is known for its stunning architecture and landmarks. One of the most iconic features of Paris is its two famous arches – the Arc de Triomphe and the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a monumental arch located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1805, it was completed in 1836, long after his death. The arch stands at a height of 50 meters and a width of 45 meters.

Design and Features

The design of the arch by Jean Chalgrin was inspired by ancient Roman architecture. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various battle scenes from French history. The names of French generals who fought in various wars are also inscribed on the inner walls.

Visiting the Arch

Visitors can climb up to the top of the arch to get breathtaking views of Paris. There is also a museum located inside that showcases artifacts related to French military history.

Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

The Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is located in front of the Louvre Museum and was built between 1806 and 1808. It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to celebrate his military victories.

The design of this arch is also inspired by ancient Roman architecture, with intricate carvings on its façade depicting scenes from Napoleon’s campaigns. The arch stands at a height of 19 meters, with a width of 23 meters.

While visitors cannot climb up to the top like they can with the Arc de Triomphe, they can admire the stunning architecture and take pictures in front of it. The arch is located in a beautiful garden and offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Conclusion

The two arches are iconic landmarks in Paris that are steeped in history and culture. While both are similar in design, each has its own unique features and stories to tell. A visit to Paris would not be complete without admiring these beautiful arches and experiencing their grandeur first-hand.