Arc de triomphe

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The iconic Arc de Triomphe stands tall at the western end of the famous Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris, France. This monumental arch is a tribute to the soldiers who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, and it took twenty years to complete, finally being inaugurated in 1836. The arch is an imposing structure with a height of over 50 meters (164 feet) and a width of approximately 45 meters (148 feet). It is topped by a statue of the goddess of victory, Marianne, who is often referred to as "La Victoire." The Arc de Triomphe is made from limestone, marble, and granite, which were all sourced from local quarries. Each face of the arch has a different inscription, commemorating various French military victories throughout history. The inscriptions are written in gold lettering on a black background, making them highly visible to visitors. One of the most famous inscriptions is that of the Battle of Austerlitz, which reads: "Au milieu des invasions de l'Europe, la France, menacée par toutes ses frontières, fut sauvée par les armes du général en chef." The Arc de Triomphe has become a symbol of French history and culture, attracting millions of visitors every year. It is also the site where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located, which honors all the unidentified soldiers who have died in combat for France since World War I. The arch is surrounded by twelve large sculptures that depict various scenes from French military history. At night, the Arc de Triomphe is beautifully illuminated with thousands of lights, making it a breathtaking sight to behold. It has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, symbolizing the rich history and heritage of France. The Arc de Triomphe was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, recognizing its cultural significance and historical importance. Today, it remains an iconic monument that continues to inspire awe and reverence from people all over the globe.