Arc de Triomphe

When you think of Paris, France, the first thing that comes to mind is likely the Eiffel Tower. And for good reason. The large pointed structure is a symbol of the nation.

Then, as you continue to think about landmarks in Paris, a few other things might pop up in your mind: the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral or Moulin Rouge. The Arc de Triomphe is something that perhaps doesn't place in your head right away. But as you look at it and study it, you'll realize that it's something that you most likely will have recognized after all.

Construction of the Arc de Triomphe was ordered in 1806 by Napoleon, the French Emperor. It's construction wasn't completed until 1836, long after the death of Napoleon. It was meant to symbolize victory, as Napoleon had conquered most of Europe at that time. Soldiers were supposed to walk through the Arc in triumph.

The Arc de Triomphe sits within viewing distance of the Eiffel Tower (well, you can see the Tower everywhere in Paris...). It's a 28 minute walk from one to the other.

Many say that from the top of the Arc, you can get the best views of the Eiffel Tower. In fact, many would rather pay to go atop the Arc, than the Tower itself. 

The Arc is a grand structure. And when I visited it a few years ago, I could see why it has remained in tact for so many years. It really is a marvelous structure.

On the day I visited with my friends, there was a parade of sorts going on. Police had barricaded several lanes of the large roundabout surrounding the Arc. There was a massive French flag hanging from the Arc. I'm not sure if this is always there or not, but it certainly created a very dramatic effect.

You can go in the middle of the Arc and look at the intricate detail as a pedestrian. I would highly recommend this. I never went to the top to see a great view of the Eiffel Tower as I didn't think it worth the cost, but if this fits your fancy, I say go for it. I've never heard anything but the best things about the view from atop.