Arc de Triomphe: Tickets

Arc de Triomphe FAQs

• Is the Arc de Triomphe wheelchair accessible?
• Yes, the Arc de Triomphe is wheelchair accessible.
• What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on the Arc de Triomphe?
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier represents the unnamed men and women that lost their lives during the war.
• Do I need to book tickets in advance to visit the Arc de Triomphe?
• We always recommend booking tickets in advance for the Arc de Triomphe. It’s one of Paris’ most popular tourist attractions so it gets very busy, especially during the peak summer months, so booking in advance guarantees your tickets.
• How long did it take to build the Arc de Triomphe?
• Construction of the Arc de Triomphe began in 1806 but was interrupted multiple times due to political upheavals. The Arc was completed in 1836, taking a total of 30 years to finish.
• How tall and wide is the Arc de Triomphe?
• The Arc de Triomphe is 50 metres (164 feet) tall, 45 metres (148 feet) wide, and 22 metres (72 feet) deep.
• What historical events have taken place at the Arc de Triomphe?
• The Arc de Triomphe has witnessed numerous historical events, such as Napoleon’s funeral procession in 1840, Germany’s victory march in World War II, the liberation march of Allied forces in 1944, and annual Bastille Day parades.
• What is inscribed on the Arc de Triomphe?
• The Arc de Triomphe has engravings of the names of 660 generals and important battles from the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Inside the structure are additional dedications to various military campaigns.
• How many steps are there to reach the top of the Arc de Triomphe?
• There are 284 steps to reach the top of the Arc de Triomphe. There is also a small museum inside that you can explore on the way up.
• Is there an elevator to the top of the Arc de Triomphe?
• Yes, there is an elevator inside the Arc de Triomphe, though you still need to climb 46 more steps after the elevator to reach the rooftop terrace as it doesn’t go all the way up.
• What can you see from the top of the Arc de Triomphe?
• The rooftop offers panoramic views of Paris, including famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, the Louvre, Montmartre, and La Défense.
• What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe and why is it important?
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier lies beneath the Arc de Triomphe and was added in 1921 to honour unidentified soldiers who died during World War I. The eternal flame above the tomb is rekindled every evening in remembrance of fallen soldiers.

Arc de Triomphe Fun Facts

• Commissioned by Napoleon: Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned the Arc de Triomphe in 1806 after his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz.
• Architectural Influence: The Arc de Triomphe was inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome but is about twice the size, making it one of the largest triumphal arches in the world.
• Iconic Location: The Arc de Triomphe stands at the Place Charles de Gaulle (formerly known as Place de l’Étoile), where 12 avenues radiate outward, forming a star pattern.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: In 1921, the remains of an unidentified French soldier from World War I were buried beneath the Arc to honour all unknown soldiers who died in combat.
• Panoramic Views of Paris: The top of the Arc de Triomphe offers amazing 360-degree views of Paris, including sights of the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Louvre.
• Location of Major Celebrations: The Arc de Triomphe is a central spot for French national celebrations, including Bastille Day parades, New Year’s Eve, and events commemorating the end of World Wars.

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