Arc de Triomphe

Evidently under the spell of the ancient Roman architecture, Napoleon I commissioned Jean Chalgrin to design a triumphal arch dedicated to the glory of the imperial armies. The world's largest monument of this kind, today it links old and new Paris, forming a backdrop for the precious urban ensemble. The impressive sculptural reliefs adorning the pillars epitomize French artistic sensitivity, and the names of 558 generals as well as major victories engraved all over the arch symbolize the pride all Frenchmen take in their military history. Underneath, the arch shelters the tomb of France's Unknown Soldier, and the panoramic terrace that it carries on top offers a fine panorama of Paris. Some bash it for being nested in the middle of traffic hustle and bustle, but the fact remains that the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most eagerly visited sites in France.