L’Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. It is located on the Champs Elysees street. It is known as “‘l’etoile” or star because it is at the center of a large traffic circle with twelve streets that radiate outward.

To get to the arch from the metro, there is an underground tunnel that goes under the street. I wouldn’t want to try to figure out how to cross the traffic jam that surrounds the arch! It included with the museum pass so I was pretty much able to walk right in without waiting in line. The arch is over 164 feet tall and is 284 steps to the top. Several people needed to stop to take breaks before arriving out of breath to the top.

I was surprised by how large it was on the inside.

The arch was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon in 1806 after a military victory in Austerlitz.

The view from the top is gorgeous and is highly recommended for anyone able to climb the steps.

Beneath the arch is the tomb of the unknown soldier who was interred on Armistice Day 1920 and an eternal flame lays on top.

The site is often used for military celebrations. The day that I visited there was a ceremony occurring as I was leaving the arch.