Standing at the center of the busy Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris' most distinctive historic landmarks. This triumphal arch was envisioned as a dedication by Napoleon to his troops for their hard won victory at the battle of Austerlitz in 1809. read more
In my opinion, the most interesting part of the Arc de Triomphe is at the base of it (and the access is free). Engraved on each of the four pillars, on the inside and inner façades, you can read a list of French victories and the names of the military leaders of the French Revolution and Empire. read more
It was designed by the architect Jean-François Chalgrin, inspired by the single arch of the Arch of Titus built in c. 81 AD in Rome. The Arc de Triomphe however is larger, a whopping 49.5 metres (162 ft) meters high, 45 meters (150 ft) long and 22 meters (72 ft) wide, built without columns. read more